Updated: 11/15/23
Are you looking to stay healthy but don’t want to deal with uncomfortable bladder infections? Look no further! In this blog post, we’ll be discussing the causes of bladder infections and how leveraging simple dietary supplements can help prevent them. You may think that your diet is already well-rounded and accounts for everything needed to maintain good health – however, certain vitamins and minerals are essential in combating bacteria that could lead to urinary tract problems. Investing in a few key supplements now will undoubtedly save you from having unpleasant run-ins with an infection down the road! So let’s dive into it – explore what causes bladder infections, along with effective methods for avoiding them altogether.
What is Bladder Infection?
Bacteria can cause an infection of the bladder. A bladder infection is quite different from a urinary tract infection (UTI). UTI refers to infection of the entire urinary tract, including the bladder, ureters, urethra, kidneys and bladder. However, a bladder infection is simply an infection that affects the bladder only.
Infections are more predominant in women than in men. More than half the women on the globe will experience an infection at least once in their lives. There are two main types of bladder infections — simple and complicated. Most infections are the former type typically caused by the E. coli bacterium.
Simple infections occur in healthy individuals. On the other hand, complicated infections may be caused by other factors, including pregnancy, diabetes, catheters and urinary stents. Both simple and complicated infections can cause significant discomfort to victims. However, simple infections are much easier to treat than complicated ones.
Bladder Infection vs UTI
A bladder infection is a form of urinary tract infection. However, urinary tract infections may not necessarily be bladder infections. The most common type of urinary tract infection is bladder infections, or cystitis.
A urinary tract infection affects one of multiple parts of the urinary tract, including the bladder, kidneys, urethra and ureters. The symptoms of UTI often vary depending on the affected area in the urinary tract.
Complicated Bladder Infections
Most infections are simple and relatively easy to treat. Simple infections rarely cause complications. A complicated bladder infection is a bacterial infection that occurs in the urinary tract and is usually harder to treat. This type of bladder infection can be caused by factors like an abnormal urinary tract or having weakened bladder muscles. Other risk factors include a weak immune system, recent antibiotic treatment, and having a catheter. When you have a complicated bladder infection, you may experience symptoms such as pelvic discomfort, urinary incontinence, fever, and more.
Complicated infections do not respond well to treatment. They are often caused by underlying health complications that make them worse. Several factors can make a bladder infection to become complicated:
- Repeated infection: Your healthcare provider may recommend a different treatment plan if you experience infections repeatedly. Some of the recommendations may include taking medications for longer than usual or IV of antibiotics every day for about a week. Patients who experience repeated infections should consider switching to different birth control methods.
- Kidney damage: Left untreated, an infection can spread to surrounding organs and tissues, including the kidneys, and cause significant long-term damage. Infections that spread to the kidneys may also cause scarring and high blood pressure.
- Bladder infections and diabetes: Diabetes usually worsens the symptoms of bladder infections.
- Bladder infections and pregnancy: Infections of the bladder are quite prevalent during pregnancy. Left untreated, they could cause health complications for both the mother and the baby.
- Life-threatening health complications: Bladder infections may spread to the kidneys and cause sepsis, which can be fatal.
Bladder Infection Symptoms
The severity of a bladder infection determines its symptoms. Signs of a bladder infection are usually noticeable during urination. Some of the signs of a simple infection include:
Frequent Urination
Do you find yourself visiting the bathroom more often than usual? Frequent urination is a tell-tale sign of a bladder infection. When you have a bladder infection, your bladder is constantly irritated, and it sends signals to your brain to empty the bladder. Be mindful of how often you are urinating, and take note if there is a sudden change in your usual pattern.
Painful Urination
Pain or a burning sensation when you urinate is also a common sign of a bladder infection. This is often caused by inflammation in the bladder lining. Some people describe it as feeling like they’re peeing razor blades. If you are experiencing this symptom, don’t ignore it – it’s your body’s way of telling you that something is wrong.
Cloudy or Dark Urine
A bladder infection can cause changes in the appearance of your urine. Urine that is darker than usual or cloudy in appearance can be a sign that your body has an infection. A bladder infection can cause blood to mix with your urine, which can also cause it to change color. If you notice any changes in your urine’s color, take notice and seek medical care.
Foul Smelling Urine
If you notice an unpleasant odor that accompanies your urine, it could be another sign of a bladder infection. The odor is caused by bacteria in the urinary tract and is quite noticeable. Over time, the smell can change and become more pungent, which is critical to treating the infection at an early stage.
Pain in Your Lower Abdomen
If you are experiencing pain or discomfort in your lower abdomen, it may be a sign of a bladder infection. This pain is usually felt above the bladder in the center of the abdomen. If you notice these symptoms, it’s important to get medical attention right away.
Fever or Fatigue
If a bladder infection goes untreated, it can spread to your kidneys, causing more severe symptoms such as fever, chills, and exhaustion. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, seek medical attention right away. It’s critical to get treatment for a bladder infection before it reaches this level of severity.
Urinary Incontinence
Finally, bladder infections can also cause urinary incontinence, which is the involuntary leakage of urine. This happens because the inflammation caused by the bacteria weakens your bladder muscles, making it harder for you to hold in your urine. If you’re experiencing sudden urges to urinate, or if you’re leaking urine even when you’re not trying to go to the bathroom, it could be a sign of a bladder infection.
A complicated bladder infection may have the symptoms as a simple bladder infection as well as:
- Back pain that persist regardless of the sitting position or activity
- Chills
- Nausea and vomiting
- Confusion
- Fever
Causes of Bladder Infections
Bacteria in the bladder causes infections. The bacteria may get to the bladder in various ways. Once the bacteria infect the bladder, it may spread to other parts of the body. In many cases, the body flushes out microorganisms in the bladder through urination.
Lack of Hydration
Dehydration can make it easier for bacteria to stick to the bladder lining and cause an infection. Drinking plenty of water can help flush out any bacteria before it has a chance to multiply.
Not Urinating Frequently Enough
Holding in urine for too long can cause bacteria to grow in the bladder. It’s important to urinate regularly, even if you don’t feel like you need to go, to keep your bladder healthy.
Poor Hygiene
Wiping from back to front after using the restroom can introduce bacteria from the rectum into the urethra. It’s important to always wipe from front to back to prevent this.
Female Anatomy
Women are more at risk of bladder infections than men because of their unique anatomy. Their urethra is shorter than that of men, and the anus is closer to the urethral opening, making it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder. Women who are sexually active, pregnant or menopausal are more prone to bladder infections, due to hormonal changes that weaken the bladder walls.
Catheters
The use of catheters can lead to bladder infections, especially if they are used for an extended period. Catheters allow bacteria to enter the bladder and travel up to the urethra, which can lead to infection. If a patient needs to use a catheter, it is essential to maintain good hygiene and ensure the catheter is changed regularly.
Sexual Activity
Sexual activity can introduce bacteria into the urethra and increase the risk of bladder infections. Urinating before and after sexual activity can help flush out any bacteria that may have entered the urethra.
Immune System Weakness
Certain conditions such as diabetes, HIV/AIDS, and lupus can affect the immune system, causing it to weaken and fail to fight off infections. People with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to bladder infections, and it’s important for their condition to be closely monitored by a medical professional.
Menopause
Women who have gone through menopause may experience a decrease in estrogen, which can lead to thinning of the urethral lining, making it easier for bacteria to enter the bladder. Using estrogen cream or hormone replacement therapy may help prevent infection
Risk Factors for Bladder Infection
Gender
Yes, ladies, we hate to break it to you, but women are more likely than men to develop bladder infections. The female urethra is shorter than the male urethra, which means bacteria have a shorter distance to travel to get to the bladder. Luckily, taking steps, including wiping front to back and staying hydrated, can reduce the likelihood of developing a bladder infection.
Sexual Activity
Are you sexually active? Do you use condoms? If you answered yes to both of these questions, kudos! Condoms help decrease the chances of developing a bladder infection by keeping bacteria out of the vagina and urethra. However, sexual activity can still increase the likelihood of a bladder infection by introducing bacteria to the area. The best way to combat this is to pee right after sexual intercourse, which helps flush out any bacteria that may have entered the bladder.
Age
As we age, our risks for developing health-related issues increases, and bladder infections are no different. Menopause can lead to a decrease in estrogen production, which can lead to changes in the urinary tract that make women more prone to bladder infections. Additionally, as we age, our bodies have a harder time fighting off infections – making bladder infections more of a risk. Keeping your body healthy as you age is essential to minimize the risk of a bladder infection.
Chronic Conditions
If you suffer from kidney stones, urinary incontinence, or any condition that causes urine retention, you have a higher risk of developing bladder infections. Urinary retention happens when your bladder does not empty entirely, creating a breeding ground for bacteria. If you have any of these conditions, talking to your physician can give you a better understanding of your risks and how to reduce them.
Weakened Immune System
If you have a weakened immune system, whether due to an underlying health condition or ongoing medication use, your risk of developing bladder infections increases. Luckily, there are several ways to help strengthen your immune system, including a healthy diet, exercise, and sleep. Ensure you are getting all of the vitamins and minerals your body needs to function correctly. Also, speak to your doctor regarding supplements or diet changes.
Diet
Believe it or not, the foods you eat can also impact your bladder health. Consuming unhealthy foods, such as those that are high in sugar or processed, can increase inflammation in the body, making it more susceptible to infections. On the other hand, eating a well-balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can help boost the immune system and reduce inflammation, lowering the risk of bladder infections.
Diagnosing Bladder Infection
To diagnose a bladder infection, your doctor may perform a urine test to check for the presence of bacteria in your urine. They may also take a urine sample to culture the bacteria and determine the best course of treatment. Additionally, your doctor may perform a physical exam to check for any signs of inflammation or infection in your bladder or urinary tract.
Bladder Infection Treatment
Antibiotics
Antibiotics are the primary treatment option for bladder infections. Your doctor will prescribe a course of antibiotics that need to be taken for a specified duration. It is essential to complete the course of antibiotics even if symptoms improve to prevent resistance of bacteria to the antibiotics.
Pain Medication
Bladder infections can cause discomfort and pain. Over the counter pain medications such as ibuprofen can help relieve these symptoms. Pain medication should not be used as a substitute for antibiotics, and you should follow your doctor’s advice on pain medication usage.
Home Remedies
Drink Plenty of Water
One of the best things you can do to treat and prevent bladder infections is to stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water helps flush harmful bacteria out of your urinary system, reducing the likelihood of infection. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water per day, and avoid sugary drinks and alcohol, which can irritate the bladder and exacerbate symptoms.
Avoid Irritants
If you’re struggling with a bladder infection, it’s important to avoid anything that could further irritate your urinary tract. This includes coffee, spicy foods, acidic foods (such as tomatoes and citrus), and artificial sweeteners. Stick to gentle, easy-to-digest foods like chicken broth, rice, and steamed vegetables until your symptoms subside.
Urinate Frequently
Holding urine can only escalate the symptoms of bladder infection. Therefore, make sure to pee frequently to flush out the bacteria and any toxins. It would help if you went to the washroom whenever you feel like peeing. Don’t hold it in as it can cause a buildup of bacteria that can make the infection worse.
Supplements for Bladder Infections
Cranberry
This supplement is rich in antioxidants and is known for supporting skin and overall health. Cranberry also supports stomach and bladder health. In addition, it promotes cardiovascular health and helps to maintain healthy blood glucose levels. Cranberry also contains anti-inflammatory agents and supports dental health. The best serving size for cranberry is 400 milligrams taken three times per day. Overdose may cause abdominal discomfort and diarrhea. Avoid supplementing with cranberry if you are expectant or nursing. Discontinue use in case you notice signs of an allergic reaction, including difficulty breathing, dizziness and itching tongue.
Vitamin C
This supplement strengthens the immune system and repairs worn tissues. It also supports metabolism and plays an essential role in carnitine synthesis. Vitamin C also strengthens collagen, teeth and bones. This product is loaded with antioxidants that protect body cells from damage and promotes cardiovascular health.
The best serving size for vitamin C is 1,000 milligrams once per day. This product is not toxic and is not known for having any adverse side effects. If side effects occur, they are usually mild and may include diarrhea and stomach upset. However, an overdose may negatively affect copper and iron levels in the body. Therefore, speak to a healthcare professional for supplementation advice if you have a copper deficiency or condition that leads to a buildup of iron deposits in the body. Expectant and nursing women should avoid supplementing with this product altogether.
D-Mannose
This product supports urinary tract health. D-mannose also strengthens the immune system. The correct dosage for this product is 2,000 milligrams per day taken with lots of water. Overdose may cause side effects such as bloating and abdominal discomfort. Avoid taking this product if you have a history of kidney disorders. In addition, women in maternal condition, including lactating mothers, should not supplement with this product. Talk to your physician about supplementing with D-mannose if you are on any medication.
Probiotics
Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are beneficial to your digestive health. But did you know they can also help prevent bladder infections? Probiotics can help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in your urinary tract, which can reduce your risk of infection. Look for probiotic supplements with strains like Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and Lactobacillus crispatus, as these are particularly effective for preventing bladder infections.
Garlic
Garlic is a natural antibiotic that can be effective in preventing and treating bladder infections. It contains compounds like allicin that can kill bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Garlic supplements are available in different forms, including capsules and tablets. However, it’s worth noting that garlic supplements may interact with certain medications like blood thinners, so it’s best to consult with your healthcare provider before taking them.
Uva Ursi
Also known as bearberry, uva ursi has been used since ancient times to treat urinary tract infections (UTIs). This powerful herb contains compounds that have antibacterial properties, making it a potent weapon against harmful bacteria. Uva ursi also acts as a diuretic, helping to flush out toxins from the urinary tract. Additionally, uva ursi may help to reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and promote healing. You may purchase bearberry extract from us at Bulksupplements.com online.
Marshmallow Root
Marshmallow root has a long history as a natural remedy for bladder infections. This soothing herb contains compounds that help to reduce inflammation and soothe irritated tissues. Marshmallow root is also a natural diuretic, which can help to increase urine flow and flush out bacteria. In addition, marshmallow root contains compounds that may help to prevent bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract walls, reducing the risk of infection.
The Bottom Line
No one wants to have a bladder infection. If you experience any of its symptoms, it is crucial to seek prompt medical attention to prevent any health complications. Antibiotics, pain medication, probiotics, fluid intake, and natural remedies are all excellent bladder infection treatment options. It is essential to remember that proper hygiene and maintaining good urinary tract health habits can also help prevent the recurrence of bladder infections. So, follow your doctor’s advice on bladder infection treatment and take the necessary steps to prevent them from happening again. Stay healthy and hydrated, folks!
Bladder infections are an uncomfortable and painful experience, but there are natural supplements that may provide relief. Uva ursi and marshmallow root have been used for centuries to fight bacterial infections and promote healing. When taken in conjunction with a healthy lifestyle, these supplements can provide a powerful tool for fighting bladder infections. Supplements such as vitamin C, D-mannose and cranberry may minimize the symptoms and discomfort of an infection. If you’re struggling with bladder infections, talk to your healthcare professional today to see if natural supplements may be right for you.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease
