Cystitis is a common condition involving inflammation of the bladder. This inflammation typically results in symptoms such as a burning sensation or pain during urination, along with a frequent and urgent need to pass urine. Bicarbonate of soda, commonly known as baking soda, is a popular temporary home remedy used to relieve the discomfort associated with these symptoms. It is often employed to provide short-term relief while waiting for medical treatment or during the initial stages of a flare-up.
Understanding Cystitis and Alkalinity
The burning and stinging sensation experienced with cystitis is often a result of highly acidic urine irritating the inflamed lining of the bladder and urethra. When the body is fighting an infection, the urine can become more concentrated and acidic, which exacerbates the discomfort. This acidic environment acts as an irritant to the sensitive tissues of the urinary tract.
Baking soda is an alkaline substance that can be consumed orally. The goal of ingesting sodium bicarbonate is to neutralize or buffer the urine’s pH level, a process known as alkalinization. By making the urine less acidic, the sodium bicarbonate temporarily reduces the burning and stinging sensation during urination. This mechanism provides symptomatic relief, which is the primary reason for its use.
Recommended Dosage and Administration
For temporary relief of cystitis symptoms, the typical recommended dose is a half to one full teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda, dissolved completely in a glass of water. Ensuring the powder is dissolved prevents stomach irritation and promotes proper absorption. This mixture should be taken as soon as the first symptoms of burning or stinging are noticed.
The recommended frequency for this remedy is generally every four hours. However, it is important to strictly limit the total daily intake to avoid potential health complications. The maximum recommended dosage for most adults should not exceed seven half-teaspoon doses in a 24-hour period.
If symptoms have not significantly improved within one to two days, or if the maximum dose has been reached, stop the baking soda remedy and seek professional medical attention. This substance is intended only for short-term, temporary relief of the burning sensation and is not a substitute for prescribed medical treatment.
Safety Considerations and Warning Signs
While bicarbonate of soda offers quick, temporary relief, its use carries risks. Sodium bicarbonate is high in sodium, which can be dangerous for individuals with pre-existing conditions. People with high blood pressure, heart problems, kidney disease, or those on a salt-restricted diet should avoid this remedy entirely due to the risk of exacerbating their condition or causing an electrolyte imbalance.
Common side effects from ingesting sodium bicarbonate include gas, bloating, and stomach discomfort, which result from the chemical reaction in the stomach. More serious risks, such as metabolic alkalosis or severe electrolyte imbalances, can occur with excessive or prolonged use. These imbalances can lead to confusion, muscle twitching, or seizures in severe cases.
Bicarbonate of soda only addresses the symptom of pain and does not treat the underlying bacterial infection that causes cystitis. Delaying proper medical care by relying on this home remedy can allow the infection to worsen and potentially spread. Warning signs indicating the infection has progressed beyond the bladder require immediate medical attention:
- Fever and chills.
- Pain in the lower back or side.
- Visible blood in the urine.
- Severe nausea and vomiting.
These symptoms suggest a complicated urinary tract infection, possibly involving the kidneys, which demands prompt diagnosis and antibiotic treatment.