Bladder infection – symptoms, causes, and treatment

Bladder infection is a common urinary tract infection (UTI) that is characterized by frequent urination and may cause a burning sensation in the urethra. This condition most often affects young women and those going through menopause, but bladder infections can also occur in men and children. What are urinary tract diseases? How long does a bladder infection last? What to use for a bladder infection? What are the symptoms of bacteria in urine? Where does the bladder hurt? What causes bladder infections?

What is a bladder infection?

The bladder is a key part of the urinary system, responsible for storing urine from the kidneys and then expelling it from the body. Where is the bladder? The organ is located in the pelvis, but there are some anatomical differences based on gender – in men, the bladder is located between the pubic bone and the rectum, while in women it is situated between the uterus, vagina, and pubic bone. Its proper function is crucial for the body’s health, but a common issue in the urinary system is bladder infection.

Bladder infection is an inflammatory condition affecting the mucous membrane of the bladder. It is one of the most frequent urinary system diseases, typically caused by bacteria. In 75% of cases, the infection is triggered by Escherichia coli, a type of bacteria commonly found in the intestines, though other bacteria like Staphylococcus and Enterococcus can also contribute.

A bladder infection is particularly common among women due to the anatomical proximity of the urethra to the anus and vagina, although it can also occur in men.

Bladder infection vs urinary tract infection (UTI)

What is the difference between a bladder infection and a urinary tract infection (UTI)?

UTI is an inflammation caused by harmful microorganisms in the urinary system, which can infect various parts, from the kidneys to the urethra. UTIs can include kidney infections (pyelonephritis), urethritis, or bladder infections. A bladder infection, which affects only the lower part of the urinary system, is one of the most common types of UTI and a frequent cause of urinary tract infections.

It’s important to note that while all bladder infections are UTIs, not all UTIs are bladder infections.

Causes of bladder infections

Under normal conditions, the bladder is sterile, free from harmful microorganisms, including bacteria. However, the urine stored in the bladder can serve as a breeding ground for pathogens. The most common cause of bladder infection is a bacterial infection, resulting from the presence of microorganisms in the urinary system, often due to:

• poor intimate hygiene,
• transfer of bacteria from the rectal area toward the urethra, especially in women, or improper wiping after a bowel movement,
• transmission of bacteria during sexual intercourse.

Many people wonder how long they can hold urine, but doctors warn against this practice. Holding urine may increase the risk of developing urinary tract infections, urinary incontinence, and kidney damage.

Factors contributing to infection

Bladder infections are mostly linked to bacteria in the urinary system, but non-infectious factors can also contribute to bladder inflammation, such as:

• irritation near the urethra caused by using inappropriate intimate hygiene products,
• vaginal contraception,
• use of tampons,
• incomplete emptying of the bladder,
• prolonged use of a catheter,
• insufficient fluid intake,
• certain medications,
• menopause, which can lead to decreased vaginal secretion and changes in urinary tract flora,
• complications from other diseases, such as diabetes, kidney stones, or kidney infections,
• decreased antibacterial activity of the prostate secretion in men.

A cold bladder can also cause frequent urination, which may be triggered by stress, leading to bladder overactivity, or by consuming diuretic foods or drinking large amounts of fluids.

Can viruses cause bladder infection?

Bladder infections are quite common in women, though men can also experience them. While urinary tract infections are most often bacterial, bladder infections can sometimes be caused by viruses. This is known as viral bladder infection.

Viral bladder infection occurs when a pathogen enters the urethra and infects the urinary system. In this case, antiviral treatment is recommended.

Symptoms of bladder infection

The symptoms of bladder infection are fairly distinctive and persistent, making it rare for the infection to go unnoticed. In adults, symptoms of bladder infection may include:

• a burning sensation during urination,
• constant urge to urinate without pain,
• pain at the end of urination,
• a stinging sensation when urinating,
• frequent urination (pollakiuria),
• pain in the lower abdomen or lower back,
• frequent urges to urinate, but passing only small amounts of urine,
• hematuria (blood in urine).

Bladder infection symptoms also include changes in the color and consistency of urine, which may become dark, cloudy, and foul-smelling, along with general malaise.

In children, initial symptoms of bladder infection may differ from those in adults. In infants, high fever, lethargy, irritability, refusal to eat, and sometimes vomiting may be the first signs of urinary tract infection. In older children, there may be daytime bedwetting, fatigue, irritability, and sometimes scratching or pressing the genital area to relieve discomfort.

What tests to perform when suspecting a bladder infection?

People experiencing bladder pain and other symptoms suggesting a urinary tract infection should consult a urologist, a specialist in bladder health, to determine the cause and take appropriate measures to alleviate discomfort and eliminate harmful pathogens from the urinary system.

The diagnosis of bladder infection is typically based on the clinical picture, which includes the typical symptoms of a urinary tract infection. During further diagnostic tests, the doctor may also request a urine culture or blood tests, such as a complete blood count, CRP, or uric acid tests.

If there is chronic bladder infection or recurrent UTIs, an ultrasound of the bladder and urinary system may be required to exclude any abnormalities affecting urine flow.

Will a urine test detect a bladder infection? A doctor will usually request a general urine test if bladder infection is suspected, as people with UTIs often have an elevated number of white blood cells in their urine, indicating an inflammatory response in the body. Sometimes, the presence of red blood cells or protein may also be seen, which can indicate a urinary system infection.

Treatment for bladder infection

People dealing with a bladder infection often wonder what treatments are available for UTIs, how to cure a bladder infection, and how to flush bacteria from the urinary system.

For uncomplicated bladder infections, doctors may recommend over-the-counter medications containing furazolidone, but usually, antibiotics for the urinary tract are prescribed to target harmful bacteria.

Treatment for a bladder infection usually lasts between 3 to 5 days, and symptoms may subside 12 to 36 hours after starting treatment. For recurrent infections or in the case of treatment for men and children, a longer course of treatment may be necessary – up to 7 to 14 days to restore a sterile bladder environment.

Bladder infection during pregnancy

Pregnant women are particularly susceptible to urinary tract infections due to hormonal effects on the urethra, making bladder infections more common among expectant mothers.

A urinary tract infection during pregnancy should not be ignored, as untreated bladder infections can pose a risk not only to the mother but also to the developing fetus. Studies suggest that bladder infections, especially in the third trimester, can increase the risk of premature labor, low birth weight, and preterm birth.

In case of a bladder infection during pregnancy, it is essential to consult the obstetrician, who will conduct appropriate tests and recommend safe treatment options for both mother and baby.

Home remedies for bladder infection

Home remedies for bladder infections, such as warm compresses on the abdomen or herbal sitz baths made from chamomile, marigold, nettle, or sage, can be helpful for lower urinary tract infections.

Including cranberry products in your daily diet, as they contain compounds that can inhibit the growth of bacteria, such as E. coli, and have anti-inflammatory properties, may also be beneficial. For people with UTIs, supplements containing vitamin C may help strengthen blood vessel walls, prevent inflammation, and create conditions that are unfavorable for bacteria growth in the urinary system.

Herbs with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, or diuretic properties may also be useful for bladder infections. Common recommendations include extracts from:

• dandelion,
• chamomile,
• st. john’s wort,
• nettle,
• horsetail,
• goldenrod,
• birch leaves,
• bearberry.

Bladder infection complications

Untreated bladder infections or improper treatment may lead to painful and dangerous complications.

A bladder infection may contribute to the development of a systemic bacterial infection known as urosepsis, which occurs when the infection spreads to the kidneys. Urosepsis presents with symptoms similar to a bladder infection, as well as signs of sepsis, such as high fever, rapid heartbeat, or difficulty breathing. Urosepsis can cause irreversible body changes and, in severe cases, even death from septic shock.

Bladder infections can also lead to kidney abscesses and may result in pyelonephritis, which can progress to kidney failure.

Prevention and prophylaxis of bladder infection

Preventing urinary tract infections is especially important for women who experience recurrent or chronic bladder infections. To reduce the risk of bladder infections and prevent recurrence after appropriate pharmacological treatment, consider implementing the following preventative methods:

• practice good intimate hygiene using slightly acidic pH hygiene products,
• avoid using intimate deodorants and perfumed bath products,
• opt for breathable underwear, steering clear of synthetic fabrics,
• empty your bladder as soon as you feel the urge – do not hold it in,
• always wipe from front to back after using the toilet,
• clean the intimate areas after sexual activity,
• make sure to drink enough fluids, aiming for around 2 liters per day.

To help prevent urinary tract infections, it’s also important to pay attention to your diet. Include fresh vegetables and fruits in your meals, especially those rich in vitamin C and flavonoids, which have antioxidant properties. It’s also advisable to limit the intake of simple sugars and highly processed foods, as they can promote bacterial growth in the body. Additionally, supplements and herbs such as goldenrod, nettle, and horsetail, as well as cranberry in the form of supplements, juice, syrup, or dried fruits may also be beneficial for urinary health.

Bibliography:

1. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/urinary-tract-infection/symptoms-causes/syc-20353447
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30797295/
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