There are a lot of different types of UTIs. They can affect the urethra, bladder, ureters, or kidneys. Typically, they are caused by bacteria that are normally found in the intestines, like E. coli. These bacteria are able to travel to the urinary system by way of the urethra. The shorter urethras of women make them more susceptible to UTIs, but bacteria don't discriminate. UTIs can be found in men, children, and the elderly.

Some symptoms that are very common among UTIs include:


  • A burning feeling when urinating
  • The sensation to urinate more frequently with less urine
  • Urine that is cloudy, has a strong smell, or has blood in it
  • Lower abdominal and back pain
  • Fever, weakness, and fatigue in some severe cases

If these symptoms are ignored, they can develop further and become kidney infections, or in really extreme cases, become sepsis.


Can Apple Cider Vinegar Cure a UTI?

Many people look for a natural answer to whether apple cider vinegar can cure a UTI. The answer is no. There is no scientific support to show that apple cider vinegar can kill the UTI bacteria. Since UTIs are a type of bacterial infection, they usually require a course of antibiotics for proper treatment. While it is true that apple cider vinegar has some antibacterial properties in lab studies, it has not been proven to reach the urinary tract in a sufficient enough concentration to have a therapeutic effect on a urinary tract infection.


It can be dangerous to solely depend on apple cider vinegar to treat a UTI. Leaving the UTI untreated can cause the infection to spread to the kidneys and create larger health problems. Consuming undiluted apple cider vinegar can irritate the throat, erode the enamel on teeth, create a stomach problem, and cause a negative reaction to several different types of medication, such as some insulin, diuretics, and blood pressure medications. It is important to be cautious while consuming undiluted apple cider vinegar if it is being combined with other health problems such as kidney disease, acid reflux, and low potassium.


Risks of Using Apple Cider Vinegar

Delay in seeking proper medical treatment may increase the infection severity and spread to the kidneys, causing risk of kidney infection or sepsis


  • Throat and stomach irritation from undiluted vinegar
  • Potential tooth enamel erosion over time
  • Possible negative medication interactions

While apple cider vinegar is safe in small amounts that are part of food or salad recipes, it is not a replacement for antibiotics and not seeking medical care is irresponsible.


What Really Helps with a UTI?

The best and safest way to deal with a UTI is to see a medical professional. There are other steps to manage discomfort and aid recovery:


  • See a Professional: Providers conduct urine tests to diagnose UTIs and prescribe appropriate antibiotics. Proper care greatly diminishes the chances of complications and infections returning.
  • Hydrate: Drinking water aids the body by flushing out the UTI causing bacteria. Water can also ease the burning when urinating.
  • Pain Management: Cramping and pressure can be managed with ibuprofen or acetaminophen. A heating pad can also aid the cramps.
  • Rest: Your immune system is supported and aided in recovery by getting enough rest.
  • Complete the Course: Even if symptoms resolve quickly, it is extremely important to complete the entire prescribed antibiotic course. If the course is not completed, bacteria can survive and cause a returned infection.

While experiencing a UTI, bladder irritants that cause an increased urge to empty the bladder and increased burning when urinating, like caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods, should be avoided.


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Does Apple Cider Vinegar Help Prevent UTIs?

Although some people hope that the daily use of apple cider vinegar will prevent UTIs, there is no scientific evidence that this will be the case. True UTI prevention is establishing healthy habits, not consuming acidic foods and drinks:


  • Stay Hydrated: Keeping urine clean is accomplished by drinking plenty of fluids.
  • Do Not Hold it: If you need to urinate, do not hold it in, as bacteria can grow in stagnant urine.
  • Post-coital urination: It’s thought that urinating after sex may help flush out bacteria that enter the urethra during sex.
  • Good hygiene: Bacteria can be flushed out by maintaining genital hygiene and by avoiding douches and irritating feminine hygiene products. Wipe front to back, as douching and other products will upset the sensitive balance of bacteria.
  • Birth control methods: Recurrent UTIs may be brought on by the use of a diaphragm and also by the use of chemical sperm blockers.
  • Cranberry: Cranberry products may help reduce the recurrence of UTIs for a certain select few; cranberry should not be considered a treatment for an active infection.

In the absence of the many so-called remedies, these methods may help reduce the incidence of UTIs.


When to See a Doctor?

UTIs accompanied by the following should all warrant an immediate visit to the doctor.


  • Back pain, fever/chills, and even nausea/vomiting.
  • Blood in urine.
  • A weakened immune system or diabetes.
  • UTIs in men, children, and the elderly.

Because of the involvement of the prostate, men usually need a longer course of antibiotics.


Final Thoughts

While using apple cider vinegar as a health tonic and food flavoring may be OK, it should not be considered an acceptable treatment. Waiting to properly treat a UTI can cause even more serious infection. The best treatment advice is. Prompt medical attention is the best treatment. Drink plenty of water to help flush bacteria. Avoid bladder irritants. Natural remedies can be used to ease comfort, but they should not be used to replace antibiotics and other medical treatments.


Please book an appointment with the best General Physician in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and all major cities of Pakistan through InstaCare, or call our helpline at 03171777509 to find a verified doctor for your disease.