Constipation/UTIs

Dear skier85,

Very difficult situation. Question –have both you and your husband been tested for possible shared infection? Also, sometimes position can trigger symptoms as well.

There is no doubt in my mind that your constipation is worsening your situation. At the very least, with toxins built up over time, it's likely you've developed Leaky Gut Syndrome, your colon is not the healthiest, and your immune system is compromised (80% is in your gut). Your internal environment becomes hospitable for pathogenic bacteria. The antibiotics that I’m sure you’ve taken have just distorted the situation more and more. Repopulating your good bacteria after a round of antibiotics is critical, and requires very high dose probiotics. I always suggest at least 200 billion cultures for a week at least, and then reduce to 50 billion as maintenance. Science Daily reported a study where it can take up to 2 years for the intestine to recover from just one round of antibiotics!

You might try probiotics that are created for vaginal support like Ultimate Flora Vaginal Formula. Cranberry juice (no sugar!) can help maintain acidity in the urinary tract. However, it really sounds to me as though a more comprehensive program might be called for to address the underlying constipation and potential fungus (Candida) issue.

To find out what’s really happening in your intestinal tract, I would suggest a Comprehensive Stool Analysis. Info can be found toward the top of this Forum. Has the doctor mentioned a particular bacterial infection that keeps recurring?

Good thought you had with regard to yeast, as the change in pH with Candida results in constipation in many – that’s the direct link you mentioned – and then the bad bacteria/yeast that overpopulates the colon can easily journey to the other passages. You really need to address those possible Candida issues.

Diet is extremely important in this situation. Sugar will magnify any yeast/fungal/Candida issues and food sensitivities will impair your immune function, and result in injury to your gut.

Are you seeing an Integrative Medical Doctor (looks at your body as a whole)? He/she could help you determine testing as well. Here are 2 websites that might help you locate someone near you. http://www.acam.org and http://www.functionalmedicine.org.

If you email my assistant at jsinclaire@renewlife.com, she can send you the chapter on Constipation from my new book that includes suggestions for balancing and healing your intestine. The book is available by pledge from your local PBS station.

I hope this helps.

Brenda Watson