We hope you won’t be spared, but half of women will get a bladder infection at least once in their lives. So it’s high time to take a closer look at what you shouldn’t do if you don’t want to get in the way of the healing process.
You don’t go to the doctor
Think that the bladder infection will pass and not go to the doctor? That’s not convenient. The infection can actually get worse if you are not prescribed the right medication. You can indeed get medicines at the drugstore, but they often only combat the pain and not the actual bladder infection.
You do not temporarily adjust your diet
Drinking plenty of water is always a good idea if you have a bladder infection. It is also a good idea to take a closer look at other foods. Avoid certain foods and drinks, as they can irritate your bladder and make symptoms worse. The biggest culprits are caffeinated drinks, alcohol, spicy food, acidic fruit and sugar substitutes.
You stop the prescribed medication too early
Not to state the obvious, but never stop your prescribed medication too early. After a few days of antibiotics you often feel a lot better, but the wrong bacteria are often still present. So just finish that treatment.
You drink less
If something is annoying during a bladder infection, it is going to the toilet. Just don’t think it’s smart to drink less. If you drink too little, bacteria can thrive better and if you don’t drink enough water, the medicines can’t reach the kidneys and bladder properly.
You hold your pee
Again: we know how unpleasant it is to urinate when you have a bladder infection. But don’t hold your pee. If you hold your urine, bacteria in your bladder can spread further.
Bron: Arbogyn | Beeld: iStock