If you suspect a bladder infection, you can purchase a urinary tract infection home test kit at your local pharmacy. [4] X Research source You can also check your urine for signs of infection by urinating into a clear glass container and letting it sit for a while. Hold the glass up to the light and look for clouding or sediment. These are both signs of infection. [5] X Research source Symptoms of a bladder infection include a constant desire to urinate, a burning sensation when you urinate, red or cloudy urine, a foul unusual smell from your urine, or pelvic pain in women. [6] X Research source [7] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source If you have a fever, chills, flushed skin, or back pain, the infection may have spread to your kidneys. Get immediate medical care. [8] X Research source Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or if you could be pregnant.
Your doctor may be able to test the sample right in their own office. In some cases, however, they will need to send it off to a lab. Some types of bacteria are resistant to certain antibiotics, so your doctor may want to get a culture and sensitivity test done on your urine to be sure you are getting the most effective treatment. [11] X Expert Source Robert Dhir, MDBoard Certified Urologist & Urological Surgeon Expert Interview. 23 September 2020. Make sure to follow up with them about the results.
Women may take antibiotics for as few as 3 days, although pregnant women may need them for up to 2 weeks. Men will usually take antibiotics for 1-2 weeks. If you stop taking the medication, the infection could return, and it may be harder to treat. Children over the age of 2 months will also be given an antibiotic, although it may come in chewable form. Talk to their pediatrician for more information. [14] X Trustworthy Source National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases Health information from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, a division of the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source The most common side effects of antibiotics are nausea and lack of appetite. If you have a rash, shortness of breath, hives, or swelling on your face, see a doctor immediately, as this could be an allergic reaction. [15] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source Severe allergic reactions rarely happen after the first 1-2 doses, although some people may develop a mild reaction (such as a rash) after several doses. Some women may develop yeast infections while taking antibiotics. [16] X Research source Infants may experience this side effect in the form of diaper rash. [17] X Research source Eating acidophilus yogurt while you are on antibiotics may help prevent yeast infections. [18] X Research source
If you experience unusual lower back pain, even without any other symptoms, get immediate medical attention. If you are pregnant, your doctor may advise you to go to the hospital if a fever develops. If you have another medical condition, such as cancer, diabetes, or a spinal cord injury, your doctor may admit you to the hospital as a precaution. An IV may be used for children under the age of 2 months instead of a pill or chewable tablet. [20] X Trustworthy Source National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases Health information from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, a division of the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
Always follow the instructions on the label of the pain reliever before taking it. Your doctor may prescribe a medication called Pyridium to relieve severe bladder pain and inflammation. Do not take this medication more often or for a longer period than recommended. Pyridium may cause your urine to appear dark orange or red. [22] X Research source
Avoid drinking coffee, alcohol, or caffeinated sodas until you have recovered from your infection. [24] X Research source
Avoid cranberry juice if you’re taking the blood thinning medication Warfarin. The interaction between the juice and the medication may cause bleeding. [26] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source Look for a brand that contains 100% real juice and is sugar free or low in added sugar. High-quality, all-natural juices are best. Check your local health food store, or buy some cranberries and make your own. Look for an unsweetened cranberry juice recipe online.
To use a hot water bottle, fill the bottle with hot, but not boiling water. Wrap it in a towel before placing it against your body.
Women are especially vulnerable to developing urinary tract infections after sex. You can minimize your chances of getting a bladder infection by always urinating and showering as soon as possible after sex. [29] X Research source
Your doctor may perform imaging tests to see if the anatomy of your bladder is causing frequent infections. These tests include an ultrasound, a computerized tomography (CT) scan, or a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In severe cases, your doctor may perform a cystoscopy, in which they put a tube up through your urinary tract to see inside of your bladder. The tube will be inserted through your urethra, which is the opening that your urine comes out of when you urinate.
Try to urinate after sex as well. This can help prevent bladder infections from developing. It may be helpful for women to urinate standing up, as this can allow your bladder to empty more completely. [34] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Showering after sex can also help prevent urinary tract infections. However, be sure to shower rather than bathe, since soaking in bath water can increase your risk of infection. [35] X Research source
The cream will usually be applied directly to your vagina. You can use it inside your vagina and also around the outside of your vaginal opening. [37] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Vaginal estrogen can also come in the form of a pessary, which is a suppository (a small tablet) that you insert directly into your vagina using a plastic applicator. [38] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
Wearing loose cotton underwear may also help prevent the return of a urinary tract infection. Avoid tight jeans, and opt for breathable pants that fit more loosely. [41] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Family Physicians Organization devoted to improving the health of patients, families, and communities Go to source Use gentle, perfume-free soaps when washing your genitals. [42] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
