Bladder Infection: Symptoms, Risk Factors, Prevention

Bacterial infection within the bladder causes bladder infection. It is a type of urinary tract infection either in the bladder, kidneys, ureters or the urethra than can be acute or chronic.  It said to be acute when the bladder infection suddenly occur. Recurrence over a long term is a result of chronic bladder infection.

Most bladder infection is caused by a bacteria present in the large intestines.  Infection results when the bacteria from the stool goes in to the skin and enters the urethra.

Symptoms

• Burning sensation or pain upon urination
• Bloody urine
• Cloudy urine
• Frequent urination than the usual
• Foul smell in the urine
• Urgency or frequent need to urinate
• Pressure in the lower back or abdomen or cramping

Risk Factors

• Women are more prone to acquire bladder infection because their urethra is closer to the rectum making it easier for the bacteria to move from one body organ to another.
• Enlarged prostate gland in older men can block urine flow and may develop to UTI.
• Immobility
• Insufficient intake of fluid
• Urinary tract surgical procedure
• Catheter
• Blockage in the bladder or urethra or urinary obstruction
• Abnormality in the urinary tract caused by injuries or birth defects
• Difficulty in emptying the bladder or retention of urine
• Narrow urethra
• Inability to control movements of the bowel.
• Diabetes

Treatment

• Medication.  Antibiotics are orally given to kill bacteria that causes bladder infection.
• Fluids.  Water helps flush out the bacteria from your bladder. It is free of caffeine and artificial sweeteners which are irritants of the bladder. it dilutes your urine making urination less painful. It also helps faster removal or treatment of infection.
• Frequent Urination. Urinating frequently moves the bacteria out of the bladder thus eliminating the infection.  It is also advisable to urinate after intercourse to prevent germs from causing infection.
• Pain Relievers.  Discomfort, abdominal cramps and back pain may be relieved by taking pain medications.
• Heating Pads. Is used with your medications to soothe dull ache across the abdominal region or back.
• Cranberry Juice and Cranberry Tablets. Is used as a natural treatment for preventing and as remedy for bladder infections.

Prevention

Prevention of bladder infections involves certain lifestyles change.

• Drink six to eight glasses of water.
• Drink cranberry juice
• Urinate when you have the urge
• After urination, females should wipe front to back
• Avoid feminine hygiene sprays, scented soaps, douches, powders
• Condoms that are non-spermicidal should be used.
• Urinating before and after intercourse

Bladder infections should be treated when symptoms occurs. To prevent worsening and spread of infection, prescribed medications should be taken religiously.