The body is like a machine. It consumes energy (from breakdown of food products) to carry out function (homeostasis- the perfect state of “Life”), and in so doing produces waste products that must be removed. If the waste products are not eliminated, the “machine” becomes “clogged” up and function in impaired.
The kidney, ureters, urinary bladder and urethra make up the Urinary System of the body. Its function is to eliminate soluble waste materials from metabolism of food and water consumed and when this becomes compromised we experience symptoms such as acidity (gout etc), kidney discomfort and bladder ailments.
As well as inadequate waste elimination cystitis can result from infection or an irritation of the bladder, due to antibiotics, stress, food allergies, poor hygiene, overuse of bubble baths and talcum powder, nylon clothing, oral and barrier contraception, or sexual intercourse. Without treatment, a serious kidney infection can develop.
Symptoms include a frequent urge to urinate with burning or stinging sensations, and sometimes aching in the bladder area. Offensive-smelling, cloudy, or discolored urine may be passed.
For acute symptoms repeat the indicated remedy often. If there is no improvement after a few doses consider another remedy and it is important to seek professional help especially in very uncomfortable or long-lasting urinary tract symptoms accompanied by fever, pain in the kidney region, or other serious symptoms.
Recurring symptoms, that is three or more episodes in a year, should be investigated by a urologist to eliminate complications such as structural anomalies, chronic stones etc.
The following information may be helpful and relates to homoeopathic remedy pictures and information available in traditional homoeopathic texts. Homoeopathic principles should be applied when using any homoeopathic remedy. Always read the product label. If symptoms persist consult your health care practitioner promptly.
Possible remedies for symptomatic relief:
Aconite: Sudden onset with anxiety. After becoming cold and chilled or after a shock. Urine may be suppressed or scanty.
Apis: Constant urge. Burning and severe stinging pains. Increased volume of urine. Thirstless.
Belladonna: Sudden onset. Intense pain, fever.
Cantharis: Most indicated remedy. Burning pain and constant desire but can only pass a few drops. Sharp pains before and during urination.
Ferrum phos: For the first stage of cystitis. Frequent urination (or it may be suppressed) and feels ‘off colour’.
Nux vomica: An irritable, impatient, chilly person with an irritable bladder and constant need to urinate.
Sepia: Worn out, irritable and dragged down feeling. Frequent urination, involuntary leaking.
Staphysagria: Burning before and during urination. ‘Honeymoon cystitis’ after new or frequent sexual activity.
The Cystitis Complex is a combination of homoeopathic remedies chosen for their ability to assist the body in recovery from the symptoms of acute cystitis.
The complex includes the following homoeopathic remedies: Apis 6c, Cantharis 6c, Chimaphilla 3x Sarpsarilla 6c and Tissue Salts.
As well as the indicated remedies the following suggestions can be very helpful. Unsweetened Cranberry juice helps with the symptoms of cystitis by disrupting e-coli, which help set up infection, from binding to the bladder lining and urethra. It can be taken as a drink or as a tablet. Lactobacillus preparations along with Echinacea supplements are also very useful.
Stop all types of sugars, in hidden forms like sauces and drinks as well as simple carbohydrates like cakes, biscuits and white flour. Drink plenty of water as well as herbal teas like parsley, corn silk and uva ursi throughout the day. Many health food shops carry very effective brands of urinary tea mix.
For the health of the urinary system It is very important to empty the bladder whenever the urge is felt. To avoid later problems with urinary and prostate function “holding it’ is strongly advised against. Emptying the bladder before activity such as bicycling, sex, gym exercises reduces urethral pressure and therefore irritation.
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