Recurring Bladder Infections

After common cold, urinary tract infections (UTIs) are considered the most common type of infections in humans. UTI is a bacterial infection that can affect any part of the urinary tract. Otherwise known as cystitis, bladder infection is the most common form of UTI. Women are more prone to cystitis, due to their anatomical features.

In women, the urethra is smaller, and its opening is located close to the vagina and rectum; making it easier for bacteria to enter.

According to statistics, most of the women in the age group of 16 to 35 develop cystitis at least once in their lifetime. Some people, especially females, suffer from recurrent bladder infections. UTI can be caused by different strains of bacteria, and this could be one of the reasons for the recurring infections.

Even though, 80% of urinary infections are caused by E.coli, the strains may vary. Latest studies show that these bacteria can attach themselves to the cells that line the urinary tract.

It is also suggested that the cells that line the urethra and vagina, allow the bacteria to get attached easily. This could be another cause for the recurring bladder infections in women.

Those who have already had an UTI, can straightaway recognize the symptoms, when they come up the next time. The most common symptoms include frequent urination, urge to urinate at night, pain and a burning sensation while urinating, cloudy/milky and foul-smelling urine, pus or blood in the urine, urethral discharge, and mild fever.

It is not necessary that the affected people must have all these symptoms. The symptoms may vary from one person to another. In some cases, the affected person may not experience any symptom at all. Fever could be an indication of the spread of infection to the kidneys.

In such cases, the affected person may also feel pain in the back or below the ribs; and nausea or vomiting.

Though cystitis may affect kids, recurrence of the condition is not common. Poor toilet habits and prolonged use of diapers, contribute to this condition in children. While both girls and boys can get affected by bladder infection, it has been observed that uncircumcised boys are more at risk.

Recurrence of bladder infections is rare in males, but it does not mean they do not get UTI. As compared to females, UTI is not that common in males. Catheters placed in the urethra and bladder can also cause bladder infection. People with kidney stones, diabetes, and women who use diaphragm for birth control, have an increased risk of bladder infection.

The most common treatment for bladder infection is antibiotics, which can fight the bacteria. Once the infection is cleared, you have to start preventive measures. The following are some tips and guidelines to prevent UTI.

• The golden rule is to drink lots of water, in order to flush out the bacteria.

• In case of women, cleaning the genital area is very important. Go for showers, instead of baths; and make sure that you clean the genital area before and after intercourse.
• Cranberry and cranberry juice are very popular home remedies to prevent recurring bladder infections. Consume fresh cranberry or cranberry juice for best results.

• Don't resist the urge to urinate, and do it whenever you feel like. Urinating right after sex is also recommended, so that the bacteria are flushed out.

• Always wipe from front to back, in order to prevent entry of bacteria from the vagina and anus to the urethra.
• Avoid alcohol, caffeine, carbonated beverages, sugars; and refined carbohydrates.

• Avoid thongs and tight pants; and change sanitary pads at regular intervals. Use 100% cotton underclothes, because nylon underwear can trap moisture, creating a favorable environment for the bacteria to multiply.
• Increase intake of probiotics, like yogurt, which may prove useful to maintain a healthy pH level in the bladder.

In short, UTI can be prevented to some extent, by maintaining proper hygiene. If you develop symptoms of bladder infection, get the condition diagnosed and treated at the earliest. In case of recurrent bladder infections, that too within a short period of six months; consult an urologist to determine the underlying cause.

While some people are genetically predisposed to UTI, others may develop this condition due to underlying conditions, like kidney or bladder stones, or abnormal functioning of the urinary system.

Disclaimer: This story is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice. Visiting your physician is the safest way to diagnose and treat any health condition.