is beer good for urinary infection - #20456
I am really confused about something and need some insight. Last week I started feeling this awful pain in my lower abdomen and frequent urination. After seeing my doc, turns out it’s a urinary tract infection. Ugh! The meds they gave me are super strong, and I just feel kinda off. Anyway, I was at a friend's party last night, and of course, I've been trying to unwind, you know? Someone asked, is beer good for urinary infection? I mean, really? I thought alcohol might be bad for my bladder or something. But they kept insisting it could be fine because, like, it’s relaxing? That made me wonder if drinking a beer or two would help or hurt my situation. On one hand, I feel like it could irritate my bladder, but on the other hand, maybe it could make me feel better just for a moment?. I honestly don’t know what to believe. Have any of you ever been told is beer good for urinary infection? I really don’t want to make things worse, but I also don't wanna miss out on socializing! How do I balance this? Any tips or thoughts would be appreciated!
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Doctors’ responses
Drinking beer or any alcohol, for that matter, isn’t beneficial for a urinary tract infection (UTI) and might actually worsen your symptoms. Alcohol can irritate the bladder and possibly contribute to dehydration, which isn’t ideal when you’re trying to flush bacteria out of your urinary tract. Instead, staying well-hydrated with water is key to managing a UTI, as it helps to dilute your urine and promotes regular bathroom visits, clearing bacteria from your system. It’s understandable wanting to socialize and unwind with friends, but there are other ways you can enjoy these moments without compromising your health further. Opt for non-caffeinated and non-alcoholic drinks at gatherings, like flavored seltzer waters, that won’t irritate your urinary system. If your friends are supportive, they’ll understand your decision to avoid alcohol while you recover. Continue taking the prescribed antibiotics as directed, even if they feel strong and you’re experiencing side effects; these should subside after finishing the course. However, if side effects worsen or become unbearable, reach out to your doctor to discuss alternatives or adjustments. Also, ensure you’re following other general measures like avoiding spicy foods and caffeine, which can also irritate the bladder. If your symptoms persist after completing the antibiotics or if you notice something unusual, seek a follow-up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation. Staying smart about your choices now will help you get back to full health faster.
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