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Acute Bladder Infections

Acute cystitis, more commonly known as a bladder infection or urinary tract infection (UTI), is an infection of the bladder or urethra. Bladder infections can spread to the kidneys, so prevention and early detection are important to prevent complications.

  1. Causes

    • The bladder does not naturally contain microorganisms, but sometimes bacteria from the rectum or genitals enter the urethra and multiply, resulting in infection. The rectum and urethra are close together in women, making women more susceptible to bladder infections.

    Risk Factors

    • Along with being female, sexual activity, diaphragm or condom use, abnormalities of the urinary tract, diabetes, kidney stones and wearing tight underwear also increase the risk for bladder infections. Catheter use, advanced age and immobility due to disability increase the chance of bladder infection as well.

    Symptoms

    • Symptoms include frequent urge to urinate but passing small amounts of urine, burning during urination, pelvic pain, cloudy urine and fatigue. According to MedicinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, symptoms that a bladder infection has spread to the kidneys include chills or night sweats, fatigue or malaise, flank pain, mental changes, nausea and a fever above 101 degrees Fahrenheit.

    Tests and Treatment

    • A urinalysis and clean catch urine culture are done to detect a bladder infection. If there is an infection, antibiotics are used for two days to a few weeks or longer, depending on the severity of the infection. Pyridium might be given to reduce pain and may turn urine a bright orange color. Pyridium is also available over-the-counter and may alleviate symptoms until seeing a physician.

    Prevention

    • For women, urinating after intercourse and wiping front to back lowers the risk of getting a bladder infection. Taking in adequate fluids and wearing underwear made from natural fibers, such as cotton, also reduce recurrent bladder infections. Cranberry juice or cranberry supplements might also improve urinary tract health and prevent infections.

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