Identification and Causes of Bladder Infections
A bladder infection is a type of urinary tract infection that is also known as cystitis. Since it’s caused by bacteria, a bladder infection is commonly treated with antibiotics. This bacteria enters your body through your urethra and spreads to the bladder. If left untreated, it may eventually spread to your kidneys, which is a much more serious type of infection.
If you experience the symptoms of a bladder infection, it’s best to get medical help as soon as possible. If you have an infection, it’s not going to go away on its own. In fact, the symptoms may become dormant for a period of time, but without medical treatment, they will return and may be worse than before.
6 Symptoms that May Point to a Bladder Infection
The symptoms of a bladder infection are uncomfortable, inconvenient, and often painful. If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should see a medical professional to receive a proper diagnosis:
- Frequent urge to urinate
- A pain or burning sensation when you urinate
- Discolored urine (such as cloudy or bloody)
- Strong-smelling urine
- Abdominal pain or cramping
- A low-grade fever
It’s important to remember that you may not experience all of the symptoms above. A bladder infection may be present even if you just have one symptom, such as pain during urination.
Treating and Preventing Bladder Infections
If a medical professional suspects a bladder infection, there are a few different types of tests that may be recommended. You will likely need a urine test to look for bacteria or blood in the urine. Your urine may also be sent to the lab for a urine culture test. This type of test can more closely identify the type of bacteria causing the infection and help a medical professional prescribe the most effective medication. Common treatments include:
- Antibiotics
- Pain relievers
- Heat application
- Loose clothing to prevent moisture and promote air circulation
Some ways you may be able to prevent bladder infections are by staying hydrated and avoiding beverages that irritate your bladder like caffeine and alcohol. You should avoid “holding it” if possible, as this increases risk of bacterial growth in your bladder.
At FastMed Urgent Care, we feature on-site labs to get your test results faster. We’re open every day of the year, including all weekends and holidays, and we have extended hours on weekdays.
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