Unfortunately, bladder pain is an ailment that is all too common in adults nationwide. This condition affects between three and eight million women and between one to four million men in the United States. However, pain doesn’t have to take control of your life. With these five tips in mind, you’ll be living pain-free in no time at all.
1. Drink water.
While it’s incredibly important for all of us to drink as much water as possible to stay hydrated, water also helps to flush bacteria from your bladder. So it only makes sense that if you are dealing with a bladder infection, you need to drink up to get rid of the infection more quickly!
Additionally, drinking more water will dilute your urine, which can potentially help it pass through your body with less pain. Urine is made up of waste products from your body, and when it is infected, urine usually looks quite dark in color. Once diluted, it becomes lighter in color and isn’t as painful to pass.
2. Get comfy.
Your underwear and undergarments should be loose, comfortable, and should not feel restricted in any way. Underwear tightness would only work to exacerbate your pain and discomfort, which is why it is worth the investment in high-quality men’s and women’s underwear. Make sure your underwear basics fit by following these tips:
- A naturally fitting crotch should be flush against your body without any gaps, excess fabric, or stretching.
- Leg and waist openings are snug, but not binding. Leg openings should be evenly arched over each leg, and the waistband should not roll down.
- The material cups the buttocks, and does not ride up or sag.
When you are suffering from a bladder infection or any pain, always remember to wear breathable cotton underwear to prevent any additional discomfort.
3. Apply heat.
Heat is a great pain reliever and will help to soothe any cramps or dull aches. Used in tandem with any antibiotics or medical aide, this is an easy method of relief that you can rely on over and over again. You can buy heating pads at your local grocery store or pharmacy, or if you are in a pinch you can make them at home. One way is to soak a washcloth or a soft towel in water, microwave it for about two minutes and hold it to your or abdomen or lower back. Or, you can fill up a clean sock with uncooked rice and microwave for about four minutes for something a bit more long-lasting.
4. Drink cranberry juice.
Cranberries have been a natural option for pain relief and the prevention of bladder infections for centuries. The science behind this is simple: Cranberries contain a compound in them that helps to prevent bacteria formation which, when ingested, can prevent bacteria from settling into the urinary tract. And while there is no significant proof that cranberry juice can help heal bladder infections, drinking a few glasses every day at the first sign of bladder pain can help to ease your symptoms.
5. Head to the doctor.
Consistent bladder pain is not normal, and if you are experiencing unusually painful symptoms, it’s important to call your doctor as soon as you can to seek relief. It’s also important to monitor your bladder, prostate, and vaginal health even while you are not feeling any type of pain, so you can understand fully how you feel when you are “normal.” You can also keep up with your health and wellness by taking a supplement for urinary health. Prostate 911 is a great example of this, as these supplements support daily urinary and prostate health, with the goal of preventing infections from happening in the first place. Their website provides much more information on urinary health, efficacy, and Prostate 911 reviews, with the goal of keeping you healthy and informed.
Following these five tips will help keep you pain-free and comfortable in no time at all.
