Destroy the Infection and Stop Pain

• The key to fighting a urinary tract infection is destroying or flushing bacteria from the urinary tract. Medications are common treatments for urinary tract infections. And if you suspect an infection, your doctor will likely order a urine test or blood test to look for certain antibodies. Antibiotics are useful in this case, and these medications stop the growth of bacteria.
  
  Symptoms usually improve within days with antibiotics. But because urinary tract infections can produce other symptoms such as back pain or pelvic pain, consider taking a pain reliever in conjunction with your antibiotic. Anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin or ibuprofen can provide immediate relief. Talk with a doctor before mixing medications to ward off any adverse reactions. If you're uncomfortable with mixing drugs, use a heating pad or take a hot bath to relieve inflammation in the back and pelvis.
  
  

Flush the Bacteria With Water

• Drinking releases fluids in your body. In turn, your body can flush toxins and bacteria from the urinary tract. However, fluids like caffeine, alcohol and citrus drinks have a high acidic level, and this can aggravate an existing infection. Until your symptoms improve, drink at least 8 to 10 glasses of water a day to keep your body hydrated and your urinary tract healthy.
  
  Also experiment with cranberry juice. According to the Doctor's Book of Home Remedies, drinking cranberry juice hinders bacteria from adhering to the walls of the urinary tract. However, the acidic level in cranberry juice may complicate symptoms. Start with a small glass of diluted cranberry juice to see if your symptoms improve or worsen.
  
  

Don't Irritate the Bladder

• Several things can irritate the bladder and worsen a urinary tract infection. If battling an infection, it's wise to stop certain activities and habits until your symptoms improve.
  
  The use of personal hygiene products such as scented sprays, douches and bubbles baths can bring on and complicate an infection. What's more, engaging in sexual relationships can aggravate symptoms of a UTI, and it's best to halt sexual activity until the infection clears.
  
  Eating spicy foods or drinking carbonated beverages can also worsen an existing infection, as does wearing tight clothing such as panty hose and jeans.