What is a Bladder Infection?

If you have an internal burning when you urinate, you just might be a victim of bladder infection. Read this article for more symptoms and some ideas on how to handle this situation.

This infection, also known as a urinary tract infection, is caused by bacteria and can affect any part of the urinary tract. The most common form is called cystitis which is an inflammation of the bladder.

The bacteria that causes the infection is usually found inside of the intestines as well as around the skin near the rectum and vagina. The bacteria migrate into the urinary track either by touching yourself with infected hands, sexual activity, or by wiping them into the vaginal area after defecating or urinating. Most bladder infections are caused by the a bacteria called Escherichia coli, or E. coli.

If you experience burning or other pain when urinating, or your urine has an unpleasant smell (and you didn't just eat asparagus which gives your urine a very strong and unpleasant temporary odor), combined with an increased urge to urinate, and lower back pain, then it is likely that you have a this ailment.

Once you have determined that you have the symptoms of a bladder infection, your next step should be a trip to the doctor. You will most likely be asked to provide a urine sample so that a lab can validate the diagnosis.

If you do indeed have a this condition, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics. You may have to take your medicine for up to 14 days. It is very important that you complete the full prescribed term of medication and don't stop early just because you are feeling better. The bacteria that cause the infection may come back stronger than ever and could become immune to drug treatment.

You will also be directed to drink plenty of fluids to flush the infection out of your system. You can drink water, apple juice and cranberry juice, or caffeine-free carbonated beverages. You should never drink alcohol while you are being treated for a bladder infection.

This infection, although painful, is not usually harmful if it is caught and treated early. Failure to treat a bladder infection, however, can lead to kidney infection which can be life-threatening if left unchecked.