Bladder infections, more common in women, are caused by bacteria entering the urinary area. Symptoms include frequent urination, burning, and sometimes blood or pus in urine. Prevention includes good hygiene and drinking water. Early treatment is important to prevent the infection from spreading to the kidneys. Pregnant women are at higher risk and should see a doctor quickly. Cotton underwear and cranberry juice are recommended home remedies.
A bladder infection is a type of urinary tract infection (UTI). The infection is usually treated easily with antibiotics combined with simple home remedies. Occasionally, if left untreated, the infection can spread to the kidneys. In very rare cases, it can cause infections in the blood. Pregnant women carry a higher risk factor as bladder and kidney infections can lead to premature labor.
Urine does not naturally contain bacteria. Bacteria from the surrounding area can enter the urinary area and cause the infection to start. It is much more common for a woman to get a bladder infection than a man. Bacteria present in the perineal area make it much more likely that foreign contaminants will enter a woman’s urinary system.
There are certain conditions that accompany a urinary tract infection that can cause discomfort or sometimes just be an annoying side effect. The most common complaint is a very frequent urge to urinate, at any time of day, with very little urine passing. This small amount of urine is usually accompanied by a burning sensation. Sometimes there may be pus or blood in the urine, which is a scary sight for most people, but it’s not uncommon. Urine also usually smells bad and contains protein.
The best way to ward off a bladder infection is preventative care. Since bacteria is the cause, good hygiene is key to preventing any UTI. Drinking water often helps flush out bacteria, while vitamins like vitamin C have been shown to be excellent for urinary tract health.
The danger accompanied by a bladder infection is very slight. Early treatment is extremely important, as an untreated infection can spread to the kidneys and other areas. As soon as you suspect an infection, you should see a doctor and start a regiment of antibiotics. For those who are pregnant, it’s especially important to see a doctor quickly as urinary tract infections have been linked to premature labor. Pain from a urinary tract infection is often more pronounced in a pregnant woman because her bladder is noticeably compressed.
In addition to medications, doctors often recommend some home remedies to help with a bladder infection. Cotton underwear allows the area to breathe and cuts off some of the atmosphere where bacteria thrive. Cranberry juice hasn’t been clinically proven helpful, but centuries of anecdotal evidence has made it a favorite of natural cures for urinary tract infections.
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