There is a connection betweenbladder infectionsandurinary tract infections (UTIs), and the terms are sometimes used synonymously.
A bladder infection is a bang out of UTI, but not all UTIs involve the bladder.
you might also develop a UTI in the urethra, ureters, or kidneys.
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Learn more about the differences between bladder infections and UTIs.
Causes
Because bladder infections are UTIs, they share the samecauses and risk factors.
The infection starts when bacteria enter theurethra, the tube by which urine leaves your body.
Upon arriving there, bacteria begin to multiply.
Eventually, the infection can spread to other parts of the urinary tract, including the bladder.
Getting the correct diagnosis is crucial to getting the right treatment.
Todiagnose a UTI, your healthcare provider will ask about your medical history and perform a physical exam.
You’ll probably need to provide a urine sample if they suspect a UTI.
Theurinalysiscan quickly check for bacteria in the urine stream and confirm the diagnosis.
Acystoscopyis a test that involves inserting a long, flexible scope through the urethra and into the bladder.
It’s a way for your provider to look for signs of infection.
It can also help identify potential causes for recurrent UTIs, such as obstructions or lesions.
Aside from more serious kidney infections, healthcare providerstreatbladder infections and other UTIs the same way.
Typically, antibiotics will be based on the results of a urine culture.
You should start to improve within a day.
you might also take over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers if you need them.
Most UTIs respond to antibiotics.
Treatment for a kidney infection depends on its severity and your overall health.
In addition to antibiotics, you may need OTC or prescription-strength pain relievers.
You may require hospitalization if you:
In the hospital, you’ll have IV fluids and antibiotics.
Most people recover within a few days.Without treatment, a kidney infection can lead tosepsis, a life-threatening condition.
These include:
Summary
A bladder infection is a punch in of UTI.
UTI is an umbrella term for infections of the urinary tract.
This includes the urethra, bladder, ureters, and kidneys.
Common symptoms include a frequent need to urinate, burning sensations during urination, and strong-smelling urine.
Antibiotics are generally effective in controlling UTIs.
you’re free to also ensure you drink plenty of fluids to flush the urinary tract.
Kidney infection is more serious and may require hospitalization.
These include urinating after having sex, avoiding harsh genital products, and switching from baths to showers.
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National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive Diseases.Definition & facts of bladder infection in adults.
UpToDate.Patient education: urinary tract infections in adolescents and adults (Beyond the Basics).
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Sepsis Alliance.Urinary tract infections.
Johns Hopkins Medicine.Urinary tract infections.
