We’ve all made that lightning-bolt sprint from the other end of the earth to the bathroom, just in time for that one sit-down moment of well-deserved relief. For some women, however, that relief never comes. Because what follows is a searing, swallowing pain that only ends when they’ve let go of every last drop.
If you’ve had a bladder infection, you know.
Bladder infections are usually triggered by the invasion of bacteria into the bladder. In some cases, they can also be caused by yeast, especially in women with weakened immune systems. Bladder infections fall under the umbrella of urinary tract infections, and can affect organs all along the urinary tract, including the urethra, bladder and kidneys. Timely medical treatment can contain bladder infections and curtail their spread.
Causes of Bladder Infections
There are two main causes of bladder infections:
Typical symptoms of bladder infections include:
Bladder infections can usually be treated through a combination of home remedies and medication.
Home Remedies
Augmenting your fluid intake can help flush out bacteria from your system. Avoid bladder stressors like artificial sweeteners and caffeine, and opt for water and homemade juices instead. Cranberry juice works wonders for most.
Medical Management
Antibiotics can work wonders in eliminating bacterial infection. In addition, your doctor may prescribe pain relief medication to alleviate any discomfort.
Women with risk factors such as advanced age, pregnancy, diabetes, immobility, insufficient fluid intake, prior urinary tract surgeries, urinary obstruction or retention, urinary tract anomalies, urine incontinence or a weakened immune system may be more susceptible to bladder infections. If your bathroom routine has become synonymous with pain and discomfort, it’s a good idea to get checked for an infection. By recognizing your symptoms now, you can finally seek freedom from the pain bogging you down.
