Signs of Bladder Infection – How it Affects Both the Genders

An infection in the bladder is sometimes known as cystitis, and are often caused by bacteria. Identifying the signs of bladder infection can help physicians determine the kind of treatment to be given in order to have a swift recovery.

Signs of Bladder Infection – Carefully Identifying its Painful Effects

Bladder infection is caused by different kinds of bacteria that cause damage to the urinary tract; the infection will start from the urethra and will move up to the bladder, causing pain and other symptoms. Signs of bladder infection may include vomiting, hematuria (having blood in the urine), and low-grade fever. Infants and toddlers may cry frequently, have jaundice, and may also have hypokalemia due to excessive vomiting. In elderly, the signs of bladder infection include hypothermia, lethargy, and an alteration in mental status. Other signs of this infection may include very foul-smelling urine, and is sometimes cloudy with contents of pus.

Bladder Infection in Women – A Common Occurrence in Women

It is more common to have bladder infection in women than in men because of the anatomical position of the female genitalia. Women have their genitals closer to the rectum; this makes bacteria from the bowel travel easily to the vagina and causes an infection. The bacteria will usually enter through the urethra and travel upward, towards the bladder and cause an infection. Another common cause of bladder infection in women is sexual intercourse. Since the vagina and the anus are close to each other, sexual acts can sometimes facilitate the transfer of bacteria towards the opening of the urinary tract.

Bladder Infection in Men – Understanding its Origins

A bladder infection in men often occurs without any apparent cause; however some birth defects, pre-existing health conditions, and activities may increase the risk of getting an infection. Men who were born with a vesicoureteral reflux may cause their urine to flow backwards; urine goes from the bladder and up to the ureters, and the kidneys. This condition will not only increase the chances of getting a bladder infection, it also increases the chance of having permanent kidney damage. Sexual intercourse is also among the leading causes of infection, especially for those with multiple partners; if the partner has any type of infection, there is a big chance for contamination.