Bladder infections, or cystitis, are the most common type of urinary tract infection (UTI). UTIs can affect various parts of the urinary tract, like the urethra, bladder, ureters, and kidneys. A bladder infection happens when harmful bacteria find their way into the bladder, often resulting in a burning feeling during urination and the need to pee frequently or urgently, even if little urine comes out.
UTIs are quite common, particularly among people assigned female at birth. About 40 to 60% of these individuals will experience a UTI in their lifetime, usually in the bladder. If you notice any symptoms of a bladder infection, it’s important to get treatment. Left untreated, it could spread to the kidneys, but these infections can usually be treated easily with antibiotics.
Symptoms of a bladder infection include burning during urination and frequent urges to urinate. If the infection spreads to the kidneys, which is more serious, symptoms might include fever and other health issues. In children, a fever might be the main sign of a bladder infection, but since kids can have fevers for many reasons, it’s good to consult a pediatrician if your child seems unusually tired, vomits, has a poor appetite, or is irritable for a long time.
Bladder infections occur when bacteria enters the bladder and multiplies, causing swelling and discomfort. The bladder is part of the urinary tract system, which removes urine from the body. Urine travels from the kidneys through the ureters to the bladder. Bacteria that enters the urinary tract is usually flushed out when you urinate, but sometimes the body can’t stop the bacteria from growing.
Women are more susceptible to UTIs than men because of anatomical differences. Women have a shorter urethra, making it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder. Additionally, the female urethra’s opening is closer to the rectum, where much of the bacteria causing bladder infections originates.
You might be more prone to bladder infections due to certain health conditions. A healthcare provider will review your medical history and may do tests to rule out sexually transmitted infections (STIs), which can have similar symptoms.
Diagnosing a bladder infection often involves medical history and tests. Treatments involve antibiotics to kill bacteria. The prescribed antibiotic depends on the bacteria type and your allergies. For mild infections, antibiotics might be taken for three to 14 days, but those with recurrent infections might need a single antibiotic dose daily or after sex.
Symptoms usually improve within 24 to 48 hours of starting antibiotics. However, it’s crucial to complete the prescribed course, even if you feel better, to prevent another infection.
Preventing bladder infections can be possible by adopting certain lifestyle habits. Complications are rare if you seek treatment promptly, but an untreated bladder infection can become a kidney infection, leading to serious issues like kidney damage or blood poisoning.
If you experience multiple UTIs, your healthcare provider may do additional tests. Depending on the results, they might suggest a preventative antibiotic regimen or treatment after sex or at the first sign of an infection. Drinking plenty of fluids and urinating often can also help in recovery when on antibiotics.
