BLADDER INFECTION (CYSTITIS)

A bladder infection, also called cystitis, is a type of urinary tract infection. The inner lining of the bladder becomes inflamed (red and swollen) and the urine is full of bacteria. Bacteria usually cause the infection. The urinary tract normally contains no bacteria. A bladder infection occurs when bacteria travel up the urethra and into the bladder.

Women are more likely to have bladder infections than men because their urethra is shorter. The short urethra makes it easier for bacteria from the anus or genital area to reach the bladder. This can happen during such activities as wiping or sexual intercourse. Most infections of the urinary tract are caused this way.

Bladder infections often occur in young women who have just become sexually active and have sexual intercourse often. When men have a bladder infection usually more tests are done because cystitis is less common in men. The tests will check for possible causes of the infection.

Anything that blocks the flow of urine, or causes incomplete emptying of the bladder, provides a place where bacteria can grow in the urine. For example, prostate enlargement in men or the presence of a baby in the uterus of a pregnant woman can cause this problem.

Possible symptoms of a bladder infection include:

a frequent and urgent need to urinate
a burning, stinging, or pressure sensation during urination
a crampy pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen just above the pubic bone or sometimes in the lower back
a need to urinate more often in the night
cloudy urine that smells bad, blood in the urine and
leaking of urine

To see if you have a bladder infection, your healthcare provider will examine you and may ask for a urine sample. More tests may be done if you have had several infections.

A bladder infection is a common problem that is usually easily treated with antibiotics. Your provider may also prescribe Pyridium, a medicine that helps reduce the pain and spasm of the bladder during the first couple of days. Pyridium will turn your urine orange and may stain your clothing. Prompt treatment of a bladder infection with antibiotics usually controls the infection and relieves the symptoms in 24 to 48 hours.

To help prevent a bladder infection from recurring, urinate often during the day and empty your bladder completely each time. Ways women can try to prevent these infections are to drink plenty of water and other noncaffeinated drinks, practicing good hygiene using the toilet (for example, wiping from front to back), avoiding the use of irritating cosmetics or chemicals in the area of the vagina and urethra (such as scented napkins or panty liners), and by urinating after sexual intercourse. There are no specific preventive measures for men other than drinking plenty of fluids and practicing good genital hygiene, especially uncircumcised men.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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