Over the last couple of months I have suffered from several kidney infections. What is causing these and what are the treatment options?
Conventional Remedy: The kidneys remove waste products from the blood to make urine. The urine is passed down into the bladder via the ureters and from the bladder to the outside by way of the urethra. This system is called the urinary tract. Infections of the urinary tract (UTI) are most commonly caused by a bug entering the urethra and making its way into the system.
If an infection affects the bladder, it is called cystitis. This is usually associated with pain on passing urine and a need to urinate more frequently.
An infection affecting the kidneys is known as pyelonephritis. This condition sometimes means blood is found in the urine. It can cause back or loin pain, and a high temperature is also a feature.
If you have not already consulted your doctor, I would strongly suggest that you do so. You need a full assessment of your problem. It may also be necessary for you to have a test called an MSU. This test is done by collecting a sample of urine from the middle of the stream in a sterile container. This will be examined in a laboratory to find out which bug is causing the infection. It will also indicate which antibiotic will be most effective. If the infection is severe and is in the kidneys (pyelonephritis), intravenous antibiotics may be required, which would involve a short hospital stay.
A course of antibiotics taken for three to seven days is the usual treatment for a simple UTI. You should drink at least two litres of fluids per day to help flush out the system.
If, following treatment, the infection continues to recur, you will be sent for further investigations. This may include an ultrasound, an Xray of the kidneys using a special dye injected into a vein, and a cystoscopy. A cystoscopy is an examination of the urethra and bladder using a telescopic instrument.
Dr Muiris Houston
Alternative Remedy: Before proceeding with the following advice, it is crucial that a medical diagnosis is received and bacterial infection has been ruled out as a cause.
In terms of nutritional therapy, sipping filtered water throughout the day is a priority. Two to three garlic capsules and up to 500 milligrams of vitamin C in powdered form should be taken daily.
Foods rich in vitamins A, C and E and zinc will also help to overcome the infection. Good-quality cranberry juice is regarded as excellent for kidney infections because it produces hippuric acid in the urine, inhibiting bacterial growth.
In terms of herbs, parsley added to celery soup is beneficial. Buchu is recommended for bladder infections in which there is a burning sensation when urine is passed. Alcohol, caffeine, sugar and fast foods should be avoided.
Epsom salts or sea salt in the bath is helpful. Sufferers should not use soap, hygienic sprays or feminine products for intimate washing. If blood is passed in urine, a doctor should be contacted immediately.
Nutritionist Patricia Quinn
Patricia Quinn is a nutritional therapist and author of Healing With Nutritional Therapy (Newleaf). Tel: 01-4513619.
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