Bladder Infection

Bladder infection is caused by bacteria on the bladder area and urinary tract. Pain, lower abdominal pain, burning sensation on urination and the frequent urge to urine are symptoms of bladder infection that causes cystitis or UTI (urinary tract infection).

Women tend to suffer bladder infection because:

1.       The female urethra is only about 1 ½ inch long. This is a short distance for the bacteria to travel.

2.       Women’s bladder can be irritated after sexual intercourse that causes bacteria to move up to the urethra.

3.       Women who use diaphragm as contraceptives may have bladder infection because the diaphragm is pressed against the bladder and causes the urine to flow irregularly.

4.       Pregnant women are also at risk of having bladder infection because of the hormonal changes during pregnancy and the enlargement of the uterus against the bladder.

Men, however can also have bladder infection because of the secondary infection which is the infection of the prostate gland. The first infection is not really as infectious as the secondary infection because the bladder is well protected. Prostate is located in front of the bladder making it to be the first one to infect. However, bacteria may move up and might infect the bladder if not treated immediately.

Ways to fight bladder infection:

1.       Drink a lot of liquids to flush bacteria in the form of urination. Those who are suffering from incontinence must retain the amount of fluid they should take as advised by their doctor.

2.       Do not hold off urination. Holding off urination makes the bacteria multiply and could cause burning sensation at the time or urination.

3.       Put heating pads or a bottle with hot water on the lower abdomen in case there is pain. This will give relief against the pain. Or take a bath using warm water.

4.       Have a rest in case you have a fever to conserve your energy.

5.       Avoid alcohol, salty and spicy foods in case you have UTI to avoid the bladder against more infection.

6.       Take pain reliever to ease the pain especially at bed time. If pain reliever does not affect you, report it to your doctor.

7.       Urinate before and after intercourse to flush out harmful bacteria.