Robert Zakar gives back to community

What Is A Bladder Infection?

A bladder infection is a type of UTI, which refers to infection in the bladder, kidneys, ureters, or urethra.

A bladder infection is most often caused by a bacterial infection within the bladder. For people with weakened immune systems, yeast can cause bladder infections as well.

Bacterial infections can cause the bladder to inflame, which is a condition known as cystitis.

Most cases of bladder infections are acute, meaning they occur suddenly. Other cases may be chronic, meaning they recur over the long term. Early treatment is key to preventing the spread of the infection.

A bladder infection is a type of urinary tract infection (UTI). This refers to an infection anywhere in the urinary tract, such as the:

The upper urinary tract includes the kidneys and ureters. The kidneys filter blood to remove waste, producing urine. The ureters carry the urine to the lower tract.

The lower tract includes the bladder and urethra. Your bladder acts as a reservoir, storing urine until you're ready to release it. Urine is passed out of the body through the urethra.

UTIs occur more often in the lower tract as it's easier for bacteria to enter.

Bacteria that enter through the urethra and move into the bladder can cause infections. Typically, the body removes the bacteria by flushing them out during urination.

Bacteria can sometimes attach to the walls of your bladder and multiply quickly. This overwhelms the body's ability to destroy them, resulting in a bladder infection.

Most bladder infections are caused by Escherichia coli (E. Coli). This type of bacteria is naturally present in the large intestines.

An infection can occur when bacteria from your stool get on your skin and enter your urethra. In women, the urethra is short and the outside opening is not far from the anus, so bacteria can easily move from one body system to another.

The symptoms of a bladder infection vary depending on the severity. You'll immediately notice changes during urination. Some of the most common symptoms include:

When bladder infections spread, they can also cause mid-back pain. This pain is associated with an infection in the kidneys. Unlike muscular back pain, this pain will be persistent regardless of your position or activity.

A kidney infection will often cause:

fever

chills

nausea

vomiting

You'll typically feel quite ill. Kidney infections are more serious than bladder infections and require urgent medical attention.

Anyone can get bladder infections, but there are different risks for women and men.

Bladder infections in women

Women are more prone to getting bladder infections than men. About 40 percent of women in the United States develop a urinary tract infection at some point in their life.

This is because women have shorter urethras, making the path to the bladder easier for bacteria to reach. Women's urethras are also located closer to the rectum than men's urethras. This means there is a shorter distance for bacteria to travel.

During pregnancy, changes in the urinary tract increase the risk of an infection. Changes in the immune system also increase risk during pregnancy.

Some forms of birth control, like diaphragms and spermicides, may increase your risk of urinary tract infections.

Women are also more prone to recurring infections. About 25 percent of women will experience a second infection within 6 months of their first infection.

Bladder infections in men

As men age, the prostate can enlarge. This can cause blockages to the flow of urine and increase the likelihood of developing a UTI. UTIs tend to increase in men as they age.

Bladder infections are not very common in men less than 65 years old. However, younger men who are uncircumcised or have anal sex may be at greater risk.

Other risk factors

Other factors can increase the risk of bladder infections for both men and women. These include:

A doctor can diagnose your bladder infection by performing a urinalysis. This is a test performed on a sample of urine to check for the presence of:

Your doctor may also perform a urine culture, which is a test to determine the type of bacteria in the urine causing the infection.

Once they know the type of bacteria, they will test it for antibiotic sensitivity to determine which antibiotic will best treat the infection.

You can connect with a primary care doctor or a urologist in your area using the Healthline FindCare tool.

Bladder infections are treated with prescription medications to kill the bacteria, usually antibiotics, and medications that relieve pain and burning.

Medication

Oral antibiotics are used to kill the bacteria that are causing the bladder infection.

If you're experiencing pain and burning sensations, your doctor may also prescribe medication to relieve those symptoms.

The most common medication for relieving the pain and burning associated with bladder infections is called phenazopyridine (Pyridium).

Home treatment

In addition to antibiotics, there are steps you can take at home to help treat your bladder infection:

Drinking plenty of fluids can help flush the bacteria out of your bladder. Water is best because it's free of caffeine and artificial sweeteners, which are known bladder irritants.

Concentrated cranberry solutions, juices, and extracts may prevent infection but should not be solely relied upon to treat an active infection. In a 2017 study, cranberry juice did lower the number of bacteria in the bladder during an infection, but it didn't cure the infection completely.

D-mannose is a natural sugar that comes from fruits like cranberries or blueberries, available as a powder or capsules. A 2014 study indicated that D-mannose can prevent UTIs at similar rates to antibiotics.

Applying estrogen cream can help people during or after menopause treat and prevent UTIs. Estrogen helps good bacteria present in the vagina guard against infectious bacteria.

Certain lifestyle changes may reduce your chances of getting a bladder infection.

If you've been experiencing recurrent bladder infections, your doctor may recommend prophylactic treatment. This consists of antibiotics taken in small daily doses to prevent or manage future bladder infections.

Lifestyle changes

Some of the following lifestyle changes may help reduce or eliminate the occurrence of bladder infections:

drinking six to eight glasses of water per day, but consult with your doctor about the correct amount of fluid based on your overall health

drinking cranberry juice daily

urinating as soon as you feel the need

wiping from front to back after urinating if you're female

not using douches, hygiene sprays, scented soaps, or powders

taking showers instead of baths

wearing cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothes

not using a diaphragm or spermicide and changing to an alternate form of birth control

using nonspermicidal lubricated condoms

urinating before and after sexual activity

Preventive antibiotic treatment

If you're experiencing recurrent bladder infections, your doctor may give you a prescription for daily antibiotics to prevent infections or to take when you feel the symptoms of a bladder infection.

They may also have you take a single dose of an antibiotic after sexual activity.

Most bladder infections subside within 48 hours of taking the appropriate antibiotic. It's important to finish all antibiotics prescribed, even if you're feeling better.

Some bladder infections can worsen and spread to the kidneys due to antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria, delayed or inadequate treatment, or other health issues.

If you have recurrent UTIs, it's important to contact your doctor. You may need certain tests to make sure your urinary system is otherwise healthy.

If you don't already have a primary care physician, you can browse doctors in your area through the Healthline FindCare tool.

Chronic bladder infections require a combination of treatment and preventive measures. Long-term daily antibiotics may be necessary in some cases.

Being proactive about bladder infections can help reduce their occurrence as well as the pain and possible complications that accompany them.

The earlier you seek treatment, the less likely it is that the infection will spread, and the sooner you'll feel better.

What Causes Stomach Pain During Pregnancy?

Medically reviewed by Renita White, MD

There are different types of stomach pain during pregnancy. Some pain comes from gas, constipation, or heartburn and is to be expected as your body changes to accommodate a growing fetus. Braxton Hicks contractions can also cause harmless discomfort. However, there are many serious conditions associated with pregnancy pain including ectopic pregnancy and miscarriage or pregnancy loss. Knowing the differences between types of pain can help you determine what the next best steps are for relieving pain and when to seek immediate medical care.

In this article, we'll go over the causes of stomach pain in pregnancy, including potential pregnancy complications and risk factors. We'll also share some expert tips for relieving different types of stomach pain, and list the symptoms that signal immediate medical attention is necessary.

gpointstudio / Getty Images

Related: Pregnancy

Causes of Upper Stomach Pain in Pregnancy

Many causes of upper stomach pain in pregnancy are considered "normal" or harmless and non-threatening. For example, people may experience upper stomach pain in the first trimester as their body changes to accommodate the growing fetus. However, there are some situations in which upper stomach pain in pregnancy is cause for concern.

If the pain is located under your ribcage, especially on the right side of your body, you'll want to see a healthcare provider immediately to rule out potential preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy concern characterized by high blood pressure and protein in the urine after 20 weeks gestation. It occurs in 5-8% of all pregnancies.

Dangers of Untreated Preeclampsia

Untreated preeclampsia can lead to liver or kidney failure and cardiovascular issues for the pregnant person. It can also lead to eclampsia or severe preeclampsia characterized by seizures and hemolysis, mevated liver enzymes and low platelets (HELLPP) syndrome. HELLPP syndrome is characterized by reduced liver functioning and blood clotting ability.

Related: What Is HELLP Syndrome?

Causes of Lower Stomach Pain in Pregnancy

Lower stomach pain can occur as your uterus grows. Lower stomach pain, cramping, and bladder tenderness in pregnancy could be caused by a urinary tract infection or UTI. While UTIs during pregnancy are treatable and do not cause harm, complications can arise if symptoms are ignored.

Signs UTI Is Spreading to Kidneys

If you experience pain in the lower back, sides of your body under the ribcage, or above your pelvic bone, and if that pain is accompanied by fever, chills, nausea, or sweats, it's a sign the infection has spread to the kidneys. Consult with a healthcare provider right away.

Related: UTIs: Causes and Risk Factors

Complications and Risk Factors

While some pain and cramping can be considered normal during pregnancy, severe pain requires immediate medical attention.

Ectopic pregnancy

Ectopic pregnancy is when the embryo is implanted anywhere but the uterus. It occurs in about one in 50 pregnancies. Ectopic pregnancies cannot continue to term because the egg cannot develop, and they can damage the structure they attach to. Signs of ectopic pregnancy include severe, intense abdominal pain between six and ten weeks of pregnancy.

Related: When Pain Could Mean Ectopic Pregnancy

Miscarriage

Miscarriage is pregnancy loss by natural causes before 20 weeks. It happens in about 15-20% of pregnancies, and in most cases cannot be prevented. Bleeding is the most common sign of pregnancy loss. The types of pain associated with miscarriage include severe back pain, contractions occurring every 5–20 minutes, and cramping or abdominal pain.

Takeaway

Contact your healthcare provider right away if you have any bleeding during pregnancy. 

Related: How to Tell If You're Having a Miscarriage

Placental abruption

Constant abdominal pain accompanied by your stomach staying hard for an extended period of time may be a sign of placental abruption. This complication can be mild or severe. The pain is caused by the placenta separating from the uterus.

Risk Factors for Pregnancy Complications

Risk factors for pregnancy complications include:

Existing health conditions, including uncontrolled diabetes

Age at pregnancy

Lifestyle factors like smoking

Pregnancy conditions like pregnancy with twins or previous pre-term birth

Genetic conditions in the fetus

Read Next: Preparing for a High-Risk Pregnancy

Describing Stomach Pain Symptoms in Pregnancy

Not all stomach pain during pregnancy is the same. Some pain is severe, intense, and unrelenting while other sensations are more accurately described as discomfort. Some ways of describing different stomach pain symptoms in pregnancy include:

Round Ligament Pain

When you move around while sleeping, sitting, or standing, there is potential for a sharp, stabbing pain sensation. This pain is coming from the stretching of your round ligaments as the uterus grows. Round ligaments are the two large ligaments running from your uterus to your groin.

Takeaway

Round ligament pain is most commonly reported in the second trimester and affects between 10-20% of pregnancies.

Read Next: What Can Cause Pelvic Pain During Pregnancy?

Digestive Pain

Gas and constipation triggered by the natural increase in progesterone during pregnancy can cause pain. This type of pain is not cause for concern. Heartburn during pregnancy can also cause harmless upper abdominal pain sensations.

Braxton Hicks Contractions

Braxton Hicks contractions are not true contractions. They can start happening as early as your second trimester but are more common as your due date approaches. They are caused by the tightening of the top of your uterine muscles. Braxton Hicks contractions spread downwards and are described as more uncomfortable than painful, but this is of course individual. They can range in intensity and last from 15-30 seconds.

Related: What Do Contractions Feel Like?

How to Relieve Mild Pregnancy Stomach Pains

If you're experiencing mild pregnancy stomach pains from upset stomach or heartburn, there are several ways of getting relief.

Try these tips for relieving digestive pain:

Avoid tight clothing

Eat small meals

Sip liquids and have most fluid in between meals

Move your body after eating (i.E., go for a short walk)

Avoid lying down right after eating

Elevate your head while sleeping

Related: What Is Lower Back Pain in Pregnancy?

Try these tips for relieving Braxton Hicks discomfort:

Switch positions (i.E., if you're sitting, stand up and walk or if you're walking, sit down and rest)

Try a warm bath for 30 minutes (or less)

Stay hydrated (contractions can be caused by dehydration)

Sip warm tea or warm milk

Related: What Do Contractions Feel Like?

When to Check In With a Provider

If you experience abdominal pain or discomfort and any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention immediately:

Severe or persistent pain

Spotting or bleeding

Fever and/or chills

Vaginal discharge

Light-headedness

Discomfort while urinating

Nausea and vomiting

Related: What Do Different Colors of Discharge Mean During Pregnancy?

Summary

Experiencing abdominal pain during pregnancy is not always cause for concern. As the body changes to accommodate pregnancy, ligaments stretch, digestive discomforts occur, and Braxton Hicks contractions can start. Some stomach pains, especially when accompanied by other symptoms such as vaginal bleeding, may indicate a more serious condition or pregnancy complication. When in doubt, or if you can't get relief at home, always check-in with a healthcare provider.

Read the original article on Verywell Health.

View comments

Read Health And Fitness News

While India has progressed considerably, there is still a gap in the country's requirement of blood supply. As per current statistics, India requires an annual average of 14.6 million blood units, but there is a consistent shortfall of roughly one million units annually . Addressing this, global healthcare leader Abbott has extended its worldwide donor recruitment campaign, 'BETHE1,' and launched the first-ever donor campaign song, 'Give Blood. Get Good Vibes.' This song aims to inspire Indian youth to donate blood, making blood donation a contemporary, compelling approach to building a healthier India. The vocals are by Tamojit Chatterjee, aka MC Headshot, an Indian hip-hop artist, rapper, lyricist, and stage performer.  Talking about this initiative, MC Headshot said, "I am proud to be a part of this campaign as it aims to help address a very real-life challenge. I hope that all the young people out there will become aware that they can make a difference. If you are healthy and able to donate, I urge you to do so and help save lives".  The campaign supplements prior on-ground efforts to promote blood donation. The company launched the campaign in major cities across India, including Mumbai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Kochi, Nagpur, Vizag, Guwahati, Nagpur, and Nashik, with digital and physical assets, mobile donation vans, and more. These sites record approximately 300,000 annual donations, with an encouraging rise in donations by over 20 per cent this year. India's demand-supply gap: A blood donation deficit India has an eligible donor population of 402 million, yet it falls short of meeting the WHO's minimum recommendation of 1 per cent of the population donating blood.  The country's blood supply in 2022 was estimated at 33.8 per thousand donations, against the demand of 36.3 per thousand.  Dr Rajesh B Sawant, Consultant - Transfusion Medicine, Histocompatibility & Immunogenetics, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital and Medical Research Institute, Mumbai, said, "One donation can save up to three lives, and the process to donate blood typically only takes about 45 minutes to an hour. Addressing India's blood deficit is essential to help avoid delays in critical blood transfusions for people in need. This can be done by raising awareness and tackling myths around blood donation, especially as there is a constant need for blood supply, not just for emergencies, but also for planned surgeries and long-term medical treatments." Voluntary blood donations are especially low in certain groups. While India has one of the youngest populations in the world, 85.5 per cent of Indian youth (aged 18-25 years) reported that they had never donated blood. Further, only 10 to 12 per cent of women are blood donors. The reasons include low awareness, misconception that blood donation could endanger their health, lack of clarity about the process, and inaccessibility to blood donation sites. Blood donation – a powerful, life-saving activity – is key to treating women with complications during pregnancy and childbirth (like postpartum haemorrhage), and children with severe anaemia, and supporting accident victims and surgical and cancer patients. In addition to this, regular blood donation also plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy iron levels in the body and stimulating the production of new blood cells. This selfless act not only saves lives but also offers advantages for the donor, including a reduced risk of cancer, lower blood pressure, improved mental state, a healthy liver, and improved plasma lipid profiles. It is a simple way to make a difference in someone's life and receive gratitude in return. Addressing the blood shortage Abbott's global program BETHE1™ and 'Give Blood. Get Back' campaign has made a significant impact around the world in countries such as the United States, and Ethiopia. In Europe, the campaign has reached potential donors in more than a half dozen countries including Germany, Italy and Greece. In India, Abbott aims to reach people under-represented in blood donor numbers, like the youth, through creative formats to drive positive behaviour change.  Dr Sonu Bhatnagar, Area Medical Director for Abbott's transfusion medicine division said, "We believe that donating blood puts the power of saving lives and better health into the hands of everyone. Aligned with the government's goals to raise awareness about the benefits of voluntary donation, our 'Give Blood. Get Good Vibes' song aims to inspire youth by making blood donation cool and putting it on top-of-their mind." The song can be heard on YouTube at Give Blood Get Good Vibes. You can learn more about blood donation and become a donor by finding a center near you. 

29 November,2023 06:16 PM ISTMumbaimid-day online correspondent

---