Bladder and Urinary Tract Infections and How To Avoid Them

Urinary and bladder infections are far more common than you may think. Fortunately, they are also quite easy to avoid.

What is the Difference between a Urinary Tract Infection and a Bladder Infection?

A urinary tract infection, also more commonly referred to as UTI, is an infection of the urinary tract. It may or may not also include infection in the urethra. This is caused when bacteria enters the urethra, either by touching with fingers or through sexual contact.

A bladder infection is very similar, and often affects the outside portion of the bladder. A bladder infection is also known as cystitis. One of the most common causes of a bladder infection is because the area near the urethra is not clean, either because of poor personal hygiene or through sexual contact with someone who has poor personal hygiene.

Symptoms

Some of the symptoms of a urinary tract infection may be difficulty urinating, having a feeling of fullness or a feeling that the bladder isn't quite empty after urination, burning when urinating, and dark or foul-smelling urine. Often, when the urine is very dark or if there is a slight pinkish tinge to it, this is an indication that there is blood in the urine. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is crucial to get it checked as soon as possible. Painful urination may also be caused by swelling in the urethra.

How to Avoid an Infection

• One of the best ways to avoid this type of infection is to drink more water. The water will fill your bladder and force you to urinate more often, flushing the urine and more of the infection out of the body.
• Avoid sugary and caffeinated beverages such as tea, coffee, and sodas.
• Drinking plenty of cranberry juice has is known to reduce symptoms and alleviate pain. Empty the bladder completely upon urination and always wash hands after urinating.
• It is also best to practice safe sex or avoid sexual contact so that the infection does not become worse or spread to another person. In extreme cases, or in cases in which cystitis may have set in, a doctor may prescribe an oral anti-biotic. If this is the case, it is best to take all the anti-biotic until the infection has cleared.

Prevention

One of the best ways to prevent a urinary tract infection or bladder infection from occurring is to be clean and to always wash hands after urination. Empty your bladder every time you urinate and clean the affected area as often as possible with clean, warm water and mild soap.

A bladder or urinary tract infection can be a major inconvenience, but with good hygiene and plenty of water, they can be avoided. Always see a doctor if a urinary tract infection is suspected.