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Cystitis and menopause
I am 49 and have suffered from cystitis since I was 18. My mother, sister and daughter all suffer from it too. I have taken antibiotics to treat this regularly over the years and started taking FOS after reading one of your articles. I am now going through the menopause and wondered what you would advise?
Many women do start to suffer from cystitis around the time of the menopause when a reduction in oestrogen levels causes a thinning of the tissues of the urethra and vagina but in your case, the problem is both long standing and, clearly, hereditary.
According to Dr Marilyn Glenville, the author of Natural Alternatives to HRT (Kyle Cathie), 85% of urinary tract infections are caused by the bacteria Eschericha coli, (E. Coli), which is, more commonly, one of the microflora found in the gut. Symptoms can include strong-smelling, cloudy urine and feeling you cannot fully empty your bladder, even after visiting the toilet.
You can, says Dr Glenville, bring the infection under control by changing the alkalinity of the urine which, in turn, will stop the E. coli from multiplying. To do this, drink 3.5 pints of water every day and, when you feel the first twinge of an attack, dissolve 1 teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda in water and do this three times a day until the infection has passed.
Avoid bubble baths, female deodorants and tampons and take a probiotic which will help boost levels of “good” bacteria in your gut. Cranberry juice can inhibit the growth of bacteria and Biocare makes two combined products which should help. Concentrated Cranberry powder is formulated with acidophilus and vitamin C and should be used during an infection. Cranberry Plus is also made with the probiotic and vitamin C and is used to prevent reinfection.
Finally, take 1,000mg of vitamin C every day and, when you do have an attack, dissolve 1 teaspoon of echinacea tincture in apple juice or water and take this twice a day until the infection is over.
*Concentrated Cranberry powder costs £14.80 for 40g. Cranberry Plus costs £7.10 for 30 capsules. Biocare is on 0121-433 3727. Add £1 for p&p. Dr Marilyn Glenville has clinics in London, Kent and Sussex. Call 0990-329244 for details.