Bladder or urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common infections caused when bacteria invade the Urethra. In addition to abdominal pain and frequent urination, they can cause burning when urinating. In this article, you will learn about the symptoms of a bladder infection.
What Is a Bladder Virus?
A bladder infection is a type of urinary tract infection that occurs when bacteria invade the urinary passage and multiply. The urinary tract comprises the kidneys (or ureters), bladder, and Urethra. When bacteria invade the Urethra, bladder, or kidneys, they can cause inflammation. This leads to various uncomfortable symptoms.
Bladder Infections are more prevalent in women and can occur at any time. Bacteria from the bowel enter the urinary canal through the Urethra. Menopause, menstruation, and sexual activity can all increase your risk of developing bladder infections.
Signs and Symptoms of Bladder Infections
Bladder inflammation can result in a wide range of uncomfortable symptoms.
- Frequent Urination
Urination can be a sign of bladder infection. This means that you may need to go to the toilet more often than normal, even if only a tiny amount of urine is present.
- Burning or Painful Urination
Bladder inflammation can result in a burning, or even painful, sensation while urinating. This is caused due to inflammation and irritation along the urinary canal.
- Abdominal Pain or Discomfort
Bladder inflammation can cause abdominal pain and discomfort, especially in the lower abdomen.
- Cloudy Urine
Bladder diseases can affect the clarity and color of urine. It is possible for urine to be cloudy and have a reddish, pinkish, or bluish tint if blood is present.
- Strong Smelling Urine
Bladder diseases can make urine smell strong and unpleasant.
- Other Signs and Symptoms
In certain cases, bladder infection may cause more symptoms than those listed above. These include fever, chills, fatigue, and even a high temperature.
How Do You Know If Your Bladder Is Infected?
If you notice any of the above signs, it’s important to contact your doctor. Your doctor can order tests and perform a medical examination to confirm the presence of a bladder problem.
- Physical Examination
Your doctor will do a physical to check for any signs of infection. This may include tenderness in your abdomen or pain with urination. They may check your blood pressure and other vital indicators.
- Urine Culture
Your healthcare provider might order a urinalysis to confirm that there are bacteria in the urine. A urine sample will be collected during a urine culture and sent to a laboratory for analysis.
- Urinalysis
Your healthcare provider may order a Urinalysis. It involves looking under a microscope at a urine sample to find signs of infection.
Conclusion
Bladder Infections are a common condition that can result in several uncomfortable symptoms. To determine whether you have a bacterial infection, speak with a healthcare professional at LMA if you are experiencing these signs.
Antibiotics that kill bacteria are often used as part of the treatment for bladder infections. If your symptoms are not relieved by antibiotics alone, your doctor may suggest other treatments.
To reduce your risk, it is important to take preventative steps, like staying hydrated, maintaining good hygiene, and urinating often. By learning the signs and preventing bladder infections by taking action, you will protect your urinary organs and maintain a healthy urinary system.
