I've got a it I haven't I?!

[duzzlightyearsmum]

Low level dull ache in the are between my hips. No burning when I wee but then I never get that. Having to wee much more frequently. Definitely not pregnant. It's probably a uti isn't it???

Anything I can do tonight to help shift it?! I'm not in too much pain yet but if the last one is anything to go by tomorrow could be a whole new thing if I don't get cracking on it soon. Last time I had one I was pregnant and thought I was going in to premature labour (still not sure my actual labour was much worse). I've got painkillers but should I be running out for anything to help?

Sorry title should read: I've got a uti haven't I?

Stupid autocorrect :/

Cranberry juice, first of all.

One thing I swear by (recurrent UTIs for 7 years) is: teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda, dissolved in a glass of water. Drink the whole thing, quickly if you can (it tastes awful). It balances the pH of your urine, and treats the symptoms. Do this 1-2 times a day.
If you still have symptoms in a couple of days, definitely go see a doctor. Antibiotics are the only sure fire cure.

Thanks ImCatbug DP has been sent out for cranberry juice although I hate the stuff. Will try the bicarbonate trick

Are there things I should avoid?

Yes avoid acidy stuff like citrus, vinegar, tomatoes etc.

Keep drinking water and weeing frequently because it can flush it out.

There are sachets you can buy too which work but they taste fucking horrible. They make me retch. Similar to bicarb I think - they must have it in them along with some naff cranberry "flavouring".

If you start to feel fluey or get a temperature get antibiotics from GP.

Drink copious amounts of water. I had a UTI on holiday recently, and drinking copious amounts of water and fresh mint tea for two days flushed it out. It's the best and easiest way to neutralise your urine.

Like others have said: Avoid citrus, vinegar & tomatoes. I also tend to limit yoghurts, and avoid alcohol.

Avoid caffeine and alcohol, and artificial sweeteners. They irritate the bladder and can make it worse. Plus acidic fruits and fruit juices.

Cranberry juice is acidic - personally I avoid when I have a UTI. The bicarb water works well for me in terms of managin symptoms, as does taking ibuprofen.

Drink absolutely tons of water - it really helps to flush it through, and it is more comfortable to go when if you actually have some fluid in the bladder (rather than feeling like you need to go but there's nothing there!)

Thanks everyone haven't been to gp today as haven't had fever or achey symptoms. But now I've finally sat down I am feeling worse so might have to visit the doctor in the morning.

Interesting about cranberry juice though as I have read somewhere that it's a myth that it helps. Have been drinking water by the gallon though