Signs you have a bladder infection

Your urinary system explained

Our urinary system (also called the renal system) is designed to remove waste from our body in the form of urine. It consists of:

• two kidneys — organs that filter blood to make urine
• bladder — where the urine is stored
• two ureters — tubes that join the kidneys to your bladder
• urethra — the tube that carries urine from your bladder to the outside of your body.

Sometimes infections occur in the urinary system. These are known as urinary tract infections (UTIs). A bladder infection is when only the bladder is infected.

What’s next?

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What causes a bladder infection?

Bladder infections are caused by bacteria called Escherichia coli (E. coli). These bacteria are naturally present in the large intestine. However, if they get on your skin and enter your urethra, they can travel up into the bladder and set up an infection.

Risk factors for bladder infections

Anyone can get a bladder infection but women are more at risk than men. This is because women have shorter urethras than men, meaning it’s easier for bacteria to reach the bladder. The opening of the urethra is also closer to the anus in women which makes it easier for bacteria to spread. Sexual activity can also introduce bacteria to the urethra.

Other risk factors include:

• pregnancy — changes in the urinary tract and the immune system increase risk
• age, particularly for men — as men get older, the prostate can enlarge causing a blockage to the flow of urine which may lead to an infection in the bladder
• being immobile
• not drinking enough fluids
• surgical procedures to the urinary tract
• structural problems in the urinary tract caused by injuries or birth irregularities
• having a blockage in the urethra or bladder
• having a urinary catheter
• having problems emptying the bladder
• bowel incontinence
• diabetes
• conditions that affect the nervous system and bladder function
• having a weakened immune system
• menopause.

Diagnosing a bladder infection

Your doctor may be able to diagnose a bladder infection based on a physical examination and discussion of your symptoms. They might also do a urine test (urinalysis) to check for white blood cells in the urine and signs of inflammation which may indicate an infection.

You may also need a urine culture test which can identify the type of bacteria causing your infection to ensure you receive the right antibiotics.

How is a bladder infection treated?

Most of the time, bladder infections are treated with a short course of antibiotics. Your doctor may also recommend medication to relieve pain and burning while you recover.

You can also do the following, in addition to antibiotics:

• Drink plenty of fluids to help flush out the bacteria from your bladder.
• Drink cranberry juice, as this can help lower the number of bacteria in your bladder, although it won’t cure the infection. However, avoid cranberry juice if you take blood-thinning medication as this may cause bleeding.
• Apply vaginal oestrogen cream if you’re menopausal.
• Use pain relief or heat packs on your lower abdomen to relieve pain.

Complications of bladder infections

It’s important to treat bladder infections promptly, as they can lead to a kidney infection. An infection in your kidneys may cause permanent damage to your kidneys.

When should you see a doctor?

If you suspect you have a bladder infection, see your doctor as soon as possible so you can begin treatment right away. If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek urgent medical attention as they may indicate serious complications:

• vomiting
• fever
• chills
• blood in your urine
• belly or back pain.

You should also visit your doctor if:

• you’ve finished treatment and symptoms return
• you have trouble urinating — a potential sign of a sexually transmitted infection (STI), vaginal infection, kidney stone, or enlarged prostate
• you have any discharge from your vagina or penis — a potential sign of an STI, pelvic inflammatory disease or other infection.

Can you prevent bladder infections?

While you may not be able to prevent all bladder infections, there are things you can do to reduce your risk of getting an infection. These include:

• Avoid bubble baths, soaps and perfumes around your genitals.
• Go to the toilet when you feel you need to urinate instead of holding on.
• Ensure you empty your bladder completely when you go to the toilet.
• Drink plenty of fluids, including cranberry juice, as this may help prevent infections (although check with your doctor about possible interactions with other medications).
• Empty your bladder after having sex.
• Wipe from front to back after going to the toilet.
• Wear cotton underwear and avoid tight-fitting clothes such as stockings, tights and lycra.

Disclaimer: General advice only – this information should not replace the information provided to you by your health care professional. If symptoms are severe or persist, please speak to your health care professional. You should also speak to your medical professional before taking any supplements or medication, including herbal remedies.

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