Can CBD Oil Cure or Treat a Urinary Tract Infection?
Urinary tract infections affect over 150 million adults each year, particularly women between 16 and 35. Caused by a bacterial or fungal infection of the urinary system, the most common symptom of a UTI is pain while urination. Common risk factors include the female anatomy, sexual intercourse, diabetes, obesity and family history. CBD for urinary tract pain is worth considering given its anti-inflammatory and pain management benefits, but more research is needed for its effects on UTIs.
A urinary tract infection or UTI occurs when bacteria and sometimes fungi get into your bladder, kidneys, ureters or urethra, which make up your urinary system. The most common symptoms of urinary tract infection include pain while urinating, frequent urination or feeling the urge to urinate despite having an empty bladder. While this condition affects over 150 million adults each year, it is more common in women, particularly between the ages of 16 and 35. The pain associated with UTI makes it worthwhile to explore CBD for urinary tract pain management and treatment.
Taking a Closer Look
Generally, there are two types of UTI. An infection in the lower part of the tract is known as a bladder infection or cystitis, while that of the upper part of the tract is called a kidney infection or pyelonephritis. The common symptoms noted above are associated with both types of UTI, but fever and abdominal pain may be symptoms of a kidney infection. While bacteria and fungi can lead to an infection, E. coli is usually the cause for most occurrences of UTI.
The most common risk factors for developing UTI are as follows:
• Female anatomy
• Family history
• Obesity
• Diabetes
Sexual intercourse is also a risk factor perhaps due to the mechanics of intercourse, as opposed to transmission of bacteria. This is why UTIs aren’t usually classified as sexually transmitted infections.
Examining CBD for Urinary Tract Pain
The most common treatment for UTI is a course of antibiotics; however, antibiotic resistance is a growing problem. The pain of this infection often results from the inflammation of the bladder. For many people, CBD reduces inflammation and damaging effects in the body when taken regularly. It is commonly taken for pain management. It’s worth exploring the benefits that CBD oil might offer to someone dealing with a urinary tract infection. Studies show that CBD may be effective at killing certain bacteria, but more research is needed for its actual impact on UTIs. If you’ve been diagnosed, talk to your physician about taking CBD oil for UTI injury.
