Bladder Infection

A bladder infection, also known as cystitis, is a type of urinary tract infection (UTI) that occurs when bacteria enter the bladder, typically through the urethra, and multiply. This can lead to inflammation and infection of the bladder lining. Common causative agents include Escherichia coli (E. coli), which is normally found in the gastrointestinal tract. Symptoms of a bladder infection can include a strong, persistent urge to urinate, a burning sensation during urination, passing frequent, small amounts of urine, and cloudy or strong-smelling urine. In some cases, patients may also experience pelvic discomfort, hematuria (blood in the urine), or low-grade fever.

Diagnosis of a bladder infection typically involves a medical history review, a physical examination, and the analysis of a urine sample (urinalysis) to detect the presence of bacteria, blood, and pus. Treatment usually consists of a course of antibiotics to eliminate the bacterial infection and may be accompanied by pain relievers to alleviate discomfort. It is crucial to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if symptoms improve, to ensure the infection is fully eradicated. In recurrent cases, further investigation may be warranted to rule out other conditions or anatomical abnormalities.