Effective UTI Treatment for 8-Year-Olds: Natural Remedies vs Antibiotics
Utis or Urinary tract infections have become prevalent in today’s society, and they can be quite risky for children if not treated in time. These infections usually affect the bladder but can also progress to the kidneys. As a parent, it might be challenging to decide whether to go for traditional antibiotics or natural remedies. This article will outline the different options and help you make an informed decision.
What are Urinary Tract Infections?
Urinary tract infections result from the invasion of bacteria into the urinary tract. In children, symptoms may include frequent urination, bedwetting, wetting during the day, and fever. Girls are more prone to UTIs than boys.
Antibiotics for UTI Treatment
Most UTI cases in children are usually treated with antibiotics. Antibiotics are medications that work by killing bacteria. UTI treatment with antibiotics is very effective, and symptoms usually disappear within a few days of administration. It is crucial to visit a doctor for prescription antibiotics and to complete the dose as prescribed, even if symptoms disappear. Antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare professional are safe and effective.
However, antibiotics are not without their downsides. Antibiotics often result in diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and other reactions in some people. They can even affect a child’s gut health and potentially make them prone to other infections.
Natural Remedies for UTI Treatment
Natural remedies are treatments that are derived from nature and do not involve prescription drugs. They include treatments like Cranberry juice and probiotics. Natural remedies have been reported to relieve UTI symptoms and help prevent recurrent UTIs in some cases.
Cranberry juice has been found to be beneficial in preventing UTIs. The juice contains Proanthocyanidins, which stop bacteria from attaching to the walls of the bladder. Other herbal remedies that can be used to complement antibiotics or treat mild UTI cases include uva ursi, goldenseal, and bearberry.
Probiotics are live bacteria that are beneficial to health. They can help restore gut health after a course of antibiotics. Fermented foods like natural yoghurt, kefir, and sauerkraut contain these live bacteria, and they help promote good gut health.
Conclusion
When it comes to UTI treatments, antibiotics are still the go-to option, especially for severe cases. It is important to consult a doctor for advice on antibiotic use. However, natural remedies such as natural juices and probiotics can be used to prevent recurrent UTIs and to complement the antibiotics, ultimately ensuring a faster recovery. Parents should, therefore, embrace a holistic approach when treating UTIs in their children.
