Kidney Infection Home Remedies: What to Do When You Don't Have Insurance
What is a Kidney Infection?
A kidney infection is a bacterial infection of the urinary tract that affects the kidneys. It generally occurs when bacteria from the bladder, urethra, or other parts of the body travel up to the kidneys and cause an infection. Symptoms include pain in the lower abdomen, a burning sensation when urinating, frequent urination, cloudy or bloody urine, and fever or chills. If left untreated, a kidney infection can lead to serious complications like sepsis or kidney failure.
What Causes a Kidney Infection?
Kidney infections are usually caused by a bacterial infection, such as Escherichia coli (E. coli). Other causes include blockages in the urinary tract, such as kidney stones or enlarged prostate, or a weakened immune system. Bacterial infections can travel up the urethra and enter the kidneys, leading to an infection.
How Can I Treat a Kidney Infection?
Treatment for a kidney infection usually involves antibiotics, although home remedies can be used to provide relief from symptoms. If you don't have insurance or if you can't afford to see a doctor, then home remedies may be a good option for treating your infection. Here are some of the home remedies you can try to help relieve the symptoms of a kidney infection:
1. Drink Plenty of Fluids
Drinking plenty of fluids is one of the most important steps in treating a kidney infection. Water helps flush out bacteria and toxins, which can help reduce pain and discomfort. Aim for 8 to 10 glasses of water per day to help keep the urinary tract clean and reduce the chances of bacteria building up and causing an infection.
2. Take a Warm Bath
Taking a warm bath can help relieve pain and discomfort caused by a kidney infection. The warmth of the water helps relax the muscles, which can help reduce pain and inflammation. Soaking in a warm bath for 15 to 20 minutes can help provide relief from painful symptoms.
3. Apply a Hot or Cold Compress
Applying a hot or cold compress to the lower abdomen can help reduce pain and inflammation caused by a kidney infection. A hot compress can help relax the muscles and reduce pain, while a cold compress can help reduce swelling. Applying a hot or cold compress for 10 to 15 minutes a few times a day can help provide relief from symptoms.
4. Try Herbal Remedies
Herbal remedies such as cranberry juice, goldenseal, and dandelion root can help reduce pain and inflammation caused by a kidney infection. These herbs can help reduce inflammation and flush out bacteria, which can help reduce pain and discomfort. Talk to your doctor before taking any herbal remedies to make sure they are safe for you to use.
5. Get Plenty of Rest
Getting plenty of rest is essential for treating a kidney infection. When you're feeling tired and run down, your body won't be able to fight off the infection as easily. So, make sure to get plenty of rest and take it easy until the infection has cleared up.
Conclusion
Kidney infections can be painful and uncomfortable, but there are home remedies that can help provide relief from symptoms. Drinking plenty of fluids, taking a warm bath, applying a hot or cold compress, trying herbal remedies, and getting plenty of rest can all help reduce pain and inflammation and help speed up recovery. If you don't have insurance or if you can't afford to see a doctor, then home remedies may be a good option for treating your infection.