Information on the Causes and Symptoms of Bladder Infections. Treating a Bladder Infection Naturally.

Bladder Infection

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What is a Bladder Infection?
Diagnosing a Bladder Infection
What are the Causes of a Bladder Infection?
Help for Bladder Infection
More Information on Bladder Infections

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What is a Bladder Infection?

A bladder infection is also known as cystitis, and is commonly referred to as a urinary tract infection (UTI). When bacteria enters the urinary tract via the urethra, sometimes it moves up into the bladder, where it can multiply and cause an infection.

Although generally very uncomfortable, treating a bladder infection is not difficult. Most bladder infections or UTI’s are caused by the bacterium Escherichia coli (E.coli).

Types of Bladder Infection

There are two main types of urinary tract infections: lower tract and upper tract infections. An infection found in the lower tract involves the urethra and/or the bladder. Infection of the urethra (tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside) is called urethritis, while infection of the bladder is called cystitis. Upper tract infections involve the kidneys and can be caused either by bacteria entering the kidneys from the bloodstream or by bacteria ascending up from the bladder via the ureters to the kidneys. An infection of the kidneys is known as pyelonephritis, and this is a serious medical condition.

Diagnosing a Bladder Infection

The doctor will perform a physical examination, check the patient’s medical history, and inquire about symptoms presented. During the physical examination, the doctor may examine the patient’s pelvic area, abdomen and lower back to determine whether the bladder or kidney is enlarged.

Tests to Diagnose Bladder Infection

Urine test by using a dipstick in the urine sample
By urine culture where a specimen is sent to the laboratory to grow and identify the causative bacteria
Ultrasound scan

Symptoms of Bladder Infections

The signs and symptoms of bladder infections include:

Urgent need to urinate
Frequent urination
Burning or pain during urination (dysuria)
Bladder spasms
Cloudy, bloody, or foul-smelling urine
Pain in lower back or abdomen
Pain above the pubic bone
Shakiness and fatigue
Mild fever

What Causes a Bladder Infection?

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The most common cause of bladder infections is infection by bacteria which have spread from the rectal area into the urethra. Approximately eighty percent of bladder infections are caused by Escherichia coli (E.coli). Other bacteria that may also cause bladder infection include Staphylococcus saprophyticus, Klebsiella, Enterobacter, and Proteus species.

Contributing Causes of Bladder Infection

The short urethra in women makes them more prone to developing infections
Sexual intercourse
Use of a diaphragm for birth control
Inadequate personal hygiene
Sexually transmitted diseases
Enlarged prostate in men
Pregnancy
Medical conditions such as diabetes or HIV
Weakened immune system

Help for Bladder Infections

The symptoms of bladder infections can be alleviated with a number of effective treatment options including drug therapy, complementary therapy, or natural remedies. Certain preventative measures can also help to reduce symptoms.

Drug Therapy

Over-the-counter drugs such as painkillers, anti-inflammatories or antispasmodics are commonly prescribed to relieve pain and discomfort.
Antibiotics are commonly prescribed to treat the infection.

It is important to note that treatmenting a bladder infection with antibiotics may contribute to recurring bladder infections, and continued antibiotic use weakens the immune system. Antibiotic use is also associated with an increased risk of developing thrush and other yeast infections. Pregnant women should consult their doctor or pharmacist before taking any medication.

Natural Remedies

Natural treatments such as herbal and homeopathic remedies can be effective in relieving the pain and discomfort of bladder infections as well as treating the infection, without the problems associated with OTC drugs and antibiotics.

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Herbal and homeopathic remedies have been traditionally used for centuries to effectively address both the symptoms of bladder infections as well as the underlying causes, thereby providing a more holistic and longer-lasting solution. Natural remedies are also safe to use regularly without the harmful side effects of conventional medicine. Using these remedies will not only treat the symptoms successfully, but also enhance your overall health and well-being. A combination of carefully selected herbs such as Agothosma betulina (buchu), Arctostaphylos uva-ursi, Melissa officinalis (lemon balm), Avena sativa , Hypericum perforatum (St. John's Wort), Vaccinium myrtillus (billberry) and Echinacea angustifolia prevent further infection by providing antibacterial action, supporting the immune system, and creating a urinary tract climate which is not conducive to bacteria. Consult a herbalist or homeopath about a treatment most suited to your symptoms.

Complementary therapy can offer a holistic and effective approach to treatmenting a bladder infection and prevention and can include:

Acupuncture
Naturopathy
Nutritional therapies
Pelvic floor treatments (to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles)
Massage
Biofeedback

Use these therapies as part of your broader treatment plan to reduce discomfort, pain and to strengthen the urinary tract system.

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Tips to Help Prevent Bladder Infection

Drink plenty of water, at least eight glasses a day, to flush out your system
Do not resist the urge to urinate
When visiting the bathroom, women should wipe from front to back after urinating
Avoid using products that may irritate the genital area such as scented soap, bubble bath, talc or spray
Wear cotton instead of nylon underwear
Avoid wearing tight jeans or trousers and wet swimsuits
Wash before and after sexual intercourse
Change tampons and sanitary towels frequently when menstruating
Drink lots of pure cranberry juice
Avoid excessive caffeine and sugar in the diet