The human bladder is a hollow, muscular organ located in the lower abdomen. It functions as a storage reservoir for urine that is produced by the kidneys. Its primary role is to collect and store urine until it's ready to be eliminated from the body. When the bladder fills to a certain capacity, it signals the brain, creating the urge to urinate. Upon urination, the bladder contracts, expelling urine through the urethra to remove waste from the body.
This is how a healthy bladder works in the human body. However, sometimes, a bacterial infection can cause bladder infections. These infections cause inflammation in the bladder and can cause quite a few problems. Read on as we discuss more about urinary bladder infections, bladder infection causes, and bladder infection treatment.
What are Bladder Infections?
Bladder infection, also known as cystitis, is a type of UTI, or urinary tract infection, which typically occurs when bacteria from the digestive tract enter the urinary tract and multiply in the bladder. The infection can take place in the:
- Bladder
- Uterus
- Kidneys
- Urethra.
Bladder Infection Causes
As discussed above, bladder infections are caused by bacteria. The bacteria enter your urethra and move to the bladder. Generally, during urination, the body removes the bacteria. But sometimes the bacteria latch onto the bladder walls, where they multiply quickly. Because of this excessive bacterial growth, the body sometimes finds it difficult to destroy or flush out the bacteria. This is what causes the infection. Wondering what is the most common cause of bladder infection? It is a bacteria called Escherichia coli (E. coli).
Escherichia coli bacteria is typically present in the large intestine. Infection occurs when bacteria from the rectal area come into contact with the skin around the urethra and subsequently enter the urethra. Because in women, the urethra is relatively short is in close proximity to the anus, it increases the likelihood of bacteria transfer from the anal area to the urethra. This facilitates the movement of bacteria between different bodily systems, leading to potential UTIs or other infections.
Bladder Infection Symptoms
Because the severity of bladder infections can vary, so do their symptoms. However, most people who are suffering will show some symptoms of bladder infection.
- Know these 5 warning signs of bladder infection:
- Burning sensation or pain when passing urine
- Bloody or cloudy urine
- Increased frequency of urination
- Urine smells foul
- Pain and/or pressure in the lower abdomen.
On the other hand, if you are suffering the following symptoms, it could probably be a kidney infection:
- Chills
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Nausea
Who is at Risk of Bladder infections?
While anyone can get a bladder infection, as compared to women, bladder infection in men is less common. It is estimated that around 47% women in India have suffered from a UTI once in their life. Some other risk factors are:
- Immobility
- Older age
- Insufficient intake of fluids
- Use of a catheter
- Surgery in the urinary tract
- A urethra that is narrow
- Diabetes
- Bowel incontinence (lack of control)
- Weak immune system
Bladder Infection Complications
When you get the right bladder infection treatment, at the right time, you will be in a better position to avoid any complications. But if you are wondering how serious can a bladder infection be then you should know that if left untreated, bladder infections can lead to several other problems.
- Ignoring bladder infection symptoms and not getting proper bladder infection treatment can lead to frequent infections.
- An untreated UTI can affect the kidneys
- UTI can affect pregnancy
- It can also lead to sepsis, which is a life-threatening complication.
Can I Prevent Bladder Infection?
Bladder infections are common and can happen to anyone. While you might not always be able to prevent the bladder infection symptoms, you can surely follow the tips given below and stay away from them:
- Drink at least 3 to 4 litres of water every day
- Try including berries in your diet
- Avoid delaying urinating
- After you pass urine, clean yourself from front to back
- Wear clean underwear, preferably made of cotton fabric
- If possible, urinate before and after having sex.
Let’s Wrap it Up
Chronic or recurrent bladder infections often necessitate a combination of treatment and preventive measures. In some instances, extended courses of daily antibiotics may be prescribed for long-term management.
Being proactive in managing bladder infections is crucial to reduce their frequency and prevent potential complications. Seeking prompt treatment at the onset of bladder infection symptoms is vital. Early intervention can not only help in minimising the likelihood of infection spreading but also expedite recovery.
Care Health Insurance offers numerous comprehensive health plans that can help you cover almost all kinds of in-hospital expenses. However, it is best recommended that you check the coverage offered by your particular plan and plan your treatment according.
>> Also Read: What are UTIs? Its Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
Disclaimers:
1. The above information is for reference purposes only: Policy Assurance and Claims at the underwriter's discretion.
2. All plan features, benefits, coverage, and claims underwriting are subject to policy terms and conditions. Kindly refer to the brochure, sales prospectus, and policy documents carefully.
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