Anyone who is prone to urinary tract or kidney infections will know that the onset of symptoms can be uncomfortable at best and agonising at worst.
And the worst part? Symptoms can hit you out of nowhere, feel like a tonne of bricks, and render you physically and emotionally exhausted because chances are you've done everything in your power to avoid one.
Wearing cotton underwear, wiping from back to front (Seriously? As if we didn't know that), peeing after sex and popping cranberry supplements is all well and good until you're struck down with another infection, right?
While seeking medical attention is advised, there are some things you can do at home which will help alleviate discomfort until you're seen by a practitioner.
These remedies are not miracle workers, but they're significantly more appealing than crouching on the bathroom floor and wondering why God has forsaken you.
1. Drink water.
Yes, it can be demoralising to be told the same thing over and over, and when an infection needs antibiotics, it needs antibiotics, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't get proactive with the H2o.
If the urge to urinate is constant and intense, it helps if your bladder is full, right?
No amount of water will get rid of an infection, but it will ensure you're not left hovering around a toilet with nothing to pass despite what your bladder might be suggesting.
2. Add bicarbonate soda to water
Bicarbonate soda helps remove the stinging sensation you feel when you're attempting to urinate while suffering from an infection.
Adding a spoon of it to a glass of water helps to neutralise the acidity of your urine, and ultimately makes trips to the bathroom a lot less painful.
3. Stay warm
Placing a heated pad between your legs works wonders and helps to alleviate the uncomfortable feeling you often experience before the antibiotics kick in.
Similarly, placing one on your back or lower stomach is one of the simplest ways to relax while in the height of an attack.
Again, it won't make your infection disappear, but it will offer a huge amount of comfort and if anyone needs comfort, it's someone with a UTI or kidney infection.
4. Listen to your body
While you know there is no way your bladder is as full as it's suggesting, the urge to urinate is strong and you have to listen.
So, even if you've been to the bathroom two minutes ago, go again and accept that you might only pass a teaspoonful, but at least it's something.
Yes, it's hideous and painful, but it's preferable to wetting yourself, right?
5. Take note
Not only does taking note of your symptoms and the regularity of attacks help take your mind off the pain, it's also incredibly useful information to provide your doctor.
Write down how often you get infections, the medication you have been prescribed, the home remedies you have used and the changes you have made to your lifestyle since experiencing these symptoms, and set it aside for your GP appointment.
This information is vital if you are susceptible to infections, and want to seek further investigation into the matter.
6. Take a shower or bath
UTIs and kidney infection can leave you feeling cold, shivery and fragile.
Taking a shower or a warm (fragrant-free) bath helps to keep you warm and comfortable until the meds can kick in good and proper.
And remember, if you have been suffering from recurring infections, and feel like your symptoms need further attention, insist on tests from your GP.
Your practioner can take urine samples and vaginal swabs which will help determine what caused the infection, and what you might be able to do in the future to protect against further infections.
