How Do You Ease The Discomfort Of A Bladder Infection?
Bladder infections, or cystitis, occur when normally sterile urine becomes contaminated by bacteria or other microorganisms from the digestive tract. According to the National Kidney Foundation, an estimated 20 percent of women have experienced at least one bladder infection. Symptoms include pain and burning during urination, a frequent and urgent need to urinate and lower abdominal pain. Rarely, a fever is present. An untreated bladder infection may move up through the urinary tract and into the kidneys, where it can become potentially serious. Increase your intake of water to help flush your bladder and reduce the concentration of your urine. This will speed recovery and help ease pain during urination. The Mayo Clinic recommends avoiding caffeinated drinks and citrus juices, as these may increase pain and irritation. Take antibiotics to kill the bacteria responsible for your bladder infection. According to the Merck Manual, women typically take antibiotics for three days, unless th