UTI Bladder Infection

A urinary tract infection is the colonization of the urinary system by common bacteria like E. coli and staph. Although the term bladder infection is often used to describe a urinary tract infection (UTI), it more correctly describes an inflammation of the urinary bladder. The symptoms of these infections are painful and inconvenient but they can be cured through a variety of home remedies or antibiotics.

Urinary System

• The urinary system is made up of the kidneys and the ureters, as well as the bladder and the urethra. Together, these structures work to remove waste from the blood stream and your body. The process begins in your kidneys, where blood passes through an elaborate filtration system. The blood, protein and nutrients are allowed to pass through, while urea, excess water and other waste products are removed. These waste products combine to make urine, which is drawn from the kidneys through the ureters, small tubes that continuously contract and restrict.The ureters take the urine to the urinary bladder, which stores the urine until it is full. The bladder then releases the urine into the urethra, which takes the urine from the body.

Cystitis

• Cystitis, another word for a bladder infection, occurs when bacteria infects the urethra and travels up to the bladder. The bacteria attaches to the urinary lining, irritating the bladder and other structure of the urinary system. Often, the first sign of cystitis is a frequent urge to urinate, even in the middle of the night. You may also have a hard time getting any urine to void, even though you feel like you have to go. The urine that does come out may be dark or cloudy. Sometimes bloody urine is caused by cystitis.

Diagnosis

• Although those who experience chronic bladder infections can often self-diagnose based on their symptoms, it is safer to have your health care provider diagnose you. He can do so through a simple urine analysis. He will ask you to provide a urine sample and analyze the contents for bacteria. Be sure to wash your hands and genitals thoroughly before giving the sample so that bacteria that may be on your skin doesn't taint the urine test.

Antibiotics

• Most health care providers will suggest prescription antibiotics to cure bladder infections. There is a variety of brands of antibiotics, from Ampicillin to Ciproflox to Bactrim. Each has its own side effects and drug interaction warnings, so be sure to disclose all preexisting conditions or drugs you are already taking to your health care provider. This will help him choose the best prescription for you. Always take the prescription as directed and until the end of the prescription. This will prevent your bladder infection from recurring.

Home Remedies

• Depending on your health care plan, prescription antibiotics can be expensive. They can also lead to other conditions, such as vaginitis. This is why many choose to treat their urinary and bladder infections with home remedies. Still, you should remember that home remedies do not cure urinary infections. They simply treat the symptoms of urinary infections, while your immune system kills off the bacteria. Whether you choose over-the-counter medicines like Uristat or try cranberry juice therapy, if your symptoms are not gone within a few days you should see your health care provider for further diagnosis.