Bladder infection or cystitis, causes and treatment methods

Cystitis is a common urinary tract infection that usually occurs when bacteria enter the opening of the urethra and multiply. Normal urine does not contain bacteria. But sometimes bacteria from outside the body enter the urinary tract and cause infection and inflammation. This is a urinary tract infection. The infection may involve the urethra (a condition called urethritis), the kidneys (a condition called pyelonephritis), or the bladder (a condition called cystitis). Cystitis is the most common type of urinary tract infection. Bladder infections can be painful and uncomfortable, and if the infection spreads to the kidneys, it can become a serious health problem. If you suffer from frequent urinary tract infections, your doctor may perform tests to check for other problems, such as diabetes or an abnormal urinary system, that may be contributing to your infections. Symptoms of cystitis Cystitis is a urinary tract infection that is located in the bladder. It is usually accompanied by severe pain and difficulty urinating. Despite the unpleasant side effects, cystitis is usually mild. However, cystitis should be treated as soon as possible to prevent more serious kidney disease. Call your doctor if you have an urgent, frequent, or painful need to urinate that lasts for several hours, or if you notice blood in your urine. If you have had a UTI in the past and have symptoms similar to those of a previous UTI, call your doctor. Common symptoms of cystitis include: - Burning sensation during urination Urinary frequency (or feeling the need to urinate frequently) - Urine is cloudy - Pain in the abdomen or pubic area - Traces of blood in the urine - Temporary urinary incontinence - A little fever

Causes of urinary infection A urinary tract infection is caused by bacteria entering the urethra (where your urine exits) and causing inflammation and infection. Bacteria can also pass through the ureters and infect the kidneys. More than 90% of cystitis cases are caused by E. coli bacteria. These bacteria normally live in the intestine (colon) and around the anus. **This can happen in several different ways:** Sex can introduce bacteria into the urethra. Inserting or modifying a urinary catheter can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract. Urine retention can cause urinary tract infection. When the bladder does not empty completely, the remaining urine is a breeding ground for bacteria. - The onset of menopause thins the mucous layer of the urethra and makes it more vulnerable to the entry of bacteria. Menopause also reduces vaginal mucus, which acts as a barrier against bacteria.

Risk factors ❌ Some people get frequent bladder infections or urinary tract infections more than others. Women are part of it. One of the main reasons is their anatomy. Women have a shorter urethra, which reduces the distance bacteria must travel to reach the bladder. **Women who are most at risk for UTIs are those who:** - They are sexually active. Sexual intercourse can introduce bacteria into the urethra. - Use some form of contraception. Women who use diaphragms are at increased risk of UTIs. Diaphragms containing spermicidal agents further increase their risk. - Are pregnant. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can increase the risk of bladder infection. - They have gone through menopause. Changes in hormone levels in postmenopausal women are often associated with urinary tract infections. Click: Urinary incontinence treatment with laser, 100% guaranteed with real video

Detection Your doctor will review your symptoms and may perform a pelvic exam. Diagnosis is usually straightforward, especially if you already have cystitis. **The following tests may also be performed in some cases:** - Urine test: a urine sample is taken for bacterial culture. - Urine culture to determine the type of bacteria in urine. This is important to help determine the appropriate treatment. - Cystoscopy: A small endoscope with a small camera is inserted through the urethra to view the bladder and the extent of the UI. This test is mostly used when the diagnosis of infection is in question. - Medical imaging: CT scan or ultrasound may be requested only if the doctor is concerned about a possible abnormality of the urinary system. - Kidney and bladder ultrasound. This imaging test uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the bladder and kidneys on a computer screen. This test is used to determine the size and shape of the bladder and kidneys and to check for masses, kidney stones, cysts, or other obstructions or abnormalities.

Treatment of bladder infection Bladder infection is treated with antibiotics. They usually disappear quickly and without complications. Treatment helps prevent severe kidney infection.