I understand the frustration associated with the recurrence of Urinary Tract Infections. The use of antibiotics for urinary infections can often lead to a predisposition to further infections if the digestive system and the balance of bacteria in the urogenital membranes and bowel are not restored.
This bacteria can be restored by using probiotic supplementation. I generally recommend the product Gastro Relief by Ethical Nutrients in this condition. This probiotic which is also used in cases of gastritis and traveller’s diarrhoea contains two ingredients which not only stimulate the immune system but aid the replenishment of bacteria in the digestive tract and surrounding membranes. This type of supplementation can be used whilst taking antibiotics however it is important to take the supplement away from taking your antibiotic eg 1-2 hours.
Other useful supplements and herbs include:
Silica: an important mineral that strengthens and supports the tissues of the bladder. Many of the herbs used in herbal medicine such as corn silks and horsetail which are used in the treatment of cystitis are high silica containing herbs. You can take this supplement in formulas such as hair skin and nail formulas or as a liquid mineral..
Zinc: an important mineral for proper immune function and tissue healing.
Cranberry: this fruit has had some controversial press however the general consensus is that the pure concentrate and unsweetened juice or supplemental form can prevent the adherence of bacteria on the bladder and urethra.
Hygiene: Due to the closeness in proximity of the urethra and the anus in females the incidence of infective cystitis is higher in women than it is in men - needless to say the importance of a proper wiping technique after going to the toilet. Females may also find that they have recurrent cystitis after sex. This type of cystitis occurs from bruising trauma to the bladder through intercourse. This type of cystitis is usually short in duration.
From your email you have implied that you have recurrent pain however it is unclear if this pain is associated with a frequency and urgency of urination or if it is more of a kidney pain. Recurrent Urinary tract infections are increasingly common. There are two important diagnoses that can present as recurrent Urinary tract Infections but do not include a bacterial cause these include interstitial cystitis and Kidney sediment.
Interstitial cystitis is a cystitis that is not associated with a bacterial origin. The symptoms of Interstitial cystitis are the same as bacterial cystitis however they are more chronic. Naturopathically the causes of this condition include allergies and sensitivities, digestive health, autoimmune disorders and neurological signals. I have seen improvement in this type of cystitis by careful examination of the patient’s history and a treatment protocol that encompasses relevant body systems.
Modification of diet may also help prevent further irritation and damage to the bladder wall. Common offenders are highly spiced or acidic foods and include alcohol, coffees, teas, herbal teas, green teas, all sodas (particularly diet), concentrated fruit juices, tomatoes, citrus fruit, vitamin C, monosodium glutamate (MSG), chocolate and potassium-rich foods such as bananas.
Kidney sediment and stones: Recently I have seen an increase in the incidence of kidney sediment in younger women. This condition which can present as being very painful is the precursor to the formation of kidney stones. The symptoms of kidney sediment include the frequency, burning and urgency of urination that an infection has but there are no blood cells on urinalysis. The onset of this condition usually includes several factors including chronic dehydration and ineffective kidney flushing (not drinking enough water), high incidence of tea, coffee and soft drinks and a high intake of oxalate containing foods in the diet. Acute flare ups of this condition include the passing of the smaller sediment grains of the stones through the urinary tubes and urethra. Treatment of this condition can also include the use of herbal medicine that soothes and strengthens the urinary system.
I encourage you to seek the services of a Naturopath to aid you in your problem. If you have decided to try the prolonged antibiotic treatment make sure you replenish the digestive system’s beneficial bacteria as you undergo treatment to prevent problems in other areas.