Urine Infection Symptoms And Treatment

What Are The Methods Used To Diagnose Bladder Infection In Children

The diagnosis of bladder infection is based on medical history, laboratory tests, and imaging tests. The medical history gives an idea about the symptoms of the condition, the time of their onset, and other conditions the child is suffering from. Imaging and laboratory tests help to confirm the diagnosis and start the treatment accordingly. The following tests are done to diagnose bladder infections in children:

• Laboratory Tests – The following laboratory tests are done to detect infection:

• Urinalysis – In this test, the child is required to collect the urine in a container. It is not possible for babies and small children to collect the urine in a container. Instead, a tube known as a catheter is inserted through the urethra, and the urine sample is collected. It is then examined in the laboratory under a microscope. The urine shows an increased number of bacteria and white blood cells in bladder infection.

• Urine Culture – The child needs to collect the urine in a container or sterile bag provided by the hospital. The urine sample is then left for some days in the laboratory to allow the bacteria to grow. This test helps to identify the bacterial strain that caused an infection. The test results are positive if the bacteria are present in the urine else, they are negative.

• Blood Tests – The doctor recommends blood tests to check for infection in the body and the health of the kidneys.

How Can I Manage Bladder Irritation

You can manage discomfort by avoiding foods you have identified as bladder irritants. But removing foods from your diet doesnt mean you can never have them again. You might be able to enjoy them in moderation . Drinking plenty of water will help reduce pain from any bladder-irritating foods you might ingest, in moderation or accidentally.

Is It Possible To Prevent Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections With A Vaccine

Currently, there are no commercially available vaccines for UTIs, either recurrent or first-time infections. One of the problems in developing a vaccine is that so many different organisms can cause infection a single vaccine would be difficult to synthesize to cover them all. Even with E. coli causing about most infections, the subtle changes in antigenic structures that vary from strain to strain further complicate vaccine development even for E. coli. Researchers are still investigating ways to overcome the problems in UTI vaccine development.

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Are Any Tests Needed

In some cases the diagnosis may be obvious and no tests are needed. A test on a urine sample can confirm the diagnosis and identify what germ is causing the infection. Sometimes a dipstick test can provide enough information immediately. In other cases the urine sample is sent to a laboratory for further examination under a microscope. This result takes several days.

Further tests are not usually necessary if you are otherwise well and have a one-off infection. However, your doctor may advise tests of your kidney or bladder if an underlying problem is suspected. If you are a man, you may be advised to have some tests for your prostate gland.

An underlying problem is more likely if the infection does not clear with antibiotic medication, or if you have:

• Symptoms that suggest a kidney is infected .
• Recurring urine infections .
• Had problems with your kidney in the past, such as kidney stones or a damaged kidney.
• Symptoms that suggest a blockage to the flow of urine.

Relevant tests may include:

• A look inside your bladder with a special telescope .

When Should I Be Concerned About Pelvic Pain

Pelvic pain may be serious if your symptoms developed suddenly or if the discomfort is severe. If you have pelvic pain that lasts for more than two weeks, schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider.

A note from Cleveland Clinic

Pelvic pain can be concerning and because itâs a symptom of so many conditions, it can be particularly frustrating. Your healthcare provider can help determine the cause of your pelvic pain so you can receive the treatment you need to feel better.

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What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Hematuria

Many times, there are no symptoms except blood in your urine. When this happens, your providers may say that youre asymptomatic. If you’re having symptoms, this may include frequent or painful urination or urination that is urgent or needs to happen right away. There can also be associated nausea, vomiting, fevers, chills or pain in your back or lower abdomen.

Although blood in your urine doesnt always mean you have a disease, it can be an important warning sign to a possible health problem.

Dont ever ignore bloody urine. Contact a healthcare provider as soon as you find blood in your urine, as earlier detection for any problem is helpful.

How To Prevent Bladder Infections In Children

The following habits help prevent bladder infection:

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What Are The Causes Of Utis In Men

Men are more likely to get UTIs than women. Not only this, men can suffer from a chronic form of UTI that can be particularly difficult to treat.

The lower the kidney function and urine output, the higher the risk of infections. If you have had a kidney transplant, it is important to avoid any medication that contains nitrates. The two main risk factors for men include:

1) Being uncircumcised

2) Having sex with multiple partners

How Are Utis Treated

If your doctor prescribes antibiotics to treat your bacterial infection, remember to take the full course even if you are feeling better.

Urinary alkalinisers can help relieve discomfort when passing urine, and improve symptoms such as stinging. You can make your own by mixing one teaspoon of baking soda or bicarbonate of soda in water, or ask your pharmacist if you prefer to buy one ready made. Please check with your doctor or pharmacist if you can use them together with other medicines you take.

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How Is Hematuria Diagnosed

During your appointment, your healthcare provider will take a medical history and perform a physical examination that might include a pelvic exam or a digital rectal exam. These things will help your provider understand your symptoms better. Your provider may order other tests. These tests may include:

• Urinalysis: A test on a urine sample.
• Urine culture: A urine test that checks for an infection.
• Urine cytology: A urine test that checks for any abnormal-appearing cells.
• Cystoscopy: A test that uses a device called a cystoscope to look at the inside of your bladder and urethra.
• Ultrasound:A test that uses ultrasound waves to examine your kidney, ureters and bladder.
• Computed tomography scan: A test that uses X-rays and computers to make cross-sectional images of your abdomen and pelvis.
• Magnetic resonance imaging scan: A test that uses a large magnet, radio waves and a computer to produce images of your organs and structures.

How To Prevent Uti Re

Following some tips can help you avoid getting another UTI:

• Empty your bladder often as soon as you feel the need to pee don’t rush, and be sure you’ve emptied your bladder completely.
• Wipe from front to back after you use the toilet.
• Drink lots of water.
• Choose showers over baths.
• Stay away from feminine hygiene sprays, scented douches, and scented bath products they’ll only increase irritation.
• Cleanse your genital area before sex.
• Pee after sex to flush out any bacteria that may have entered your urethra.
• If you use a diaphragm, unlubricated condoms, or spermicidal jelly for birth control, you may want to switch to another method. Diaphragms can increase bacteria growth, while unlubricated condoms and spermicides can irritate your urinary tract. All can make UTI symptoms more likely.
• Keep your genital area dry by wearing cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothes. Donââ¬â¢t wear tight jeans and nylon underwear they can trap moisture, creating the perfect environment for bacteria growth.

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Common Symptoms Of A Bladder Infection

The most common symptoms of a bladder infection include:

• pain or burning with urination
• frequent or intense urges to urinate

• trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole

Usually, symptoms start to go away within a few days of treatment. However, your antibiotic prescription may last for 710 days, depending on the type of medication your doctor prescribes. It is important to take the medication for the full length of time on the prescription label, even if you feel better. This increases the likelihood of curing the infection and lowers the risk of creating antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Your doctor may also prescribe a medication for pain relief to help with any symptoms of burning or pain while urinating.

When Should I Contact My Doctor

You shouldnt ever ignore blood in your urine. Its important to contact a healthcare provider if you see blood in your urine or if you have other symptoms related to hematuria.

A note from Cleveland Clinic

Theres no need to panic if you see blood in your urine, especially if you have your period or youve just eaten something like beets. However, its a good idea to give your healthcare provider a call. Its better to catch any kind of condition early, even if its just a UTI. Your provider will work with you to find out whats causing blood in your urine and a successful treatment.

Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 08/16/2022.

References

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How Do You Know If Pelvic Pain Is Serious

While not all pelvic pain is serious, seeking medical care when symptoms are severe is important. You should head to the nearest emergency room if:

• Pelvic pain is sharp, severe or sudden.
• Youâre unable to stand up straight.
• There is blood in your pee or poop.
• Youâre running a fever.
• Youâre pregnant or have been pregnant in the last six months.

What Are The Symptoms Of A Uti

If you have a UTI, you may have some or all of these symptoms:6,7

• Pain or burning when urinating
• An urge to urinate often, but not much comes out when you go
• Pressure in your lower abdomen
• Urine that smells bad or looks milky or cloudy
• Blood in the urine. This is more common in younger women. If you see blood in your urine, tell a doctor or nurse right away.
• Feeling tired, shaky, confused, or weak. This is more common in older women.
• Having a fever, which may mean the infection has reached your kidneys

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Is It Possible To Prevent Urinary Tract Infections With Diet And Supplements

It is possible to reduce the chance that a UTI will develop with dietary methods and some supplements but prevention of all UTIs is unlikely with these methods.

• Supplements such as eating cranberries, taking vitamin C tablets, and eating yogurt and other substances also may reduce the chance that a UTI will develop .
• However, as stated in the prevention section, changes in a person’s lifestyle may reduce the chance of getting a UTI as good as, if not better than, any diet or supplement.

Condom Use During Sex

Non-lubricated latex condoms may increase friction and irritate the skin during sexual intercourse. This may increase the risk of a UTI.

But there are many reasons to use condoms. Theyre important for reducing the spread of sexually transmitted infections and preventing unwanted pregnancy.

To help prevent friction and skin irritation from condoms, be sure to use enough water-based lubricant during sex.

Avoid using condoms coated with spermicide.

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How Are Urinary Tract Infections Treated

You will need to treat a urinary tract infection. Antibiotics are medicines that kill bacteria and fight an infection. Antibiotics are typically used to treat urinary tract infections. Your healthcare provider will pick a drug that best treats the particular bacteria thats causing your infection. Some commonly used antibiotics can include:

• Nitrofurantoin.

Its very important that you follow your healthcare providers directions for taking the medicine. Dont stop taking the antibiotic because your symptoms go away and you start feeling better. If the infection is not treated completely with the full course of antibiotics, it can return.

If you have a history of frequent urinary tract infections, you may be given a prescription for antibiotics that you would take at the first onset of symptoms. Other patients may be given antibiotics to take every day, every other day, or after sexual intercourse to prevent the infection. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best treatment option for you if you have a history of frequent UTIs.

What Is Pelvic Pain

Although pelvic pain often refers to pain in the region of women’s reproductive organs, it can be present in both men and women and can stem from other causes. Pelvic pain might be a symptom of infection or might arise from pain in the pelvic bone or in non-reproductive internal organs. In people designated female at birth , however, pelvic pain can very well be an indication that there might be a problem with one of the reproductive organs in the pelvic area .

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What Are The Complications Of Bladder Infections In Children

The complications of bladder infections in children are listed below:

• Kidney Damage – If the urinary tract infection is left untreated, scarring of the kidneys occurs, which can cause permanent damage to the kidneys.

• Hypertension – If the kidneys get damaged, the waste products and toxins accumulate in the body resulting in a rise in blood pressure or hypertension.

• Bladder Problems – The urinary bladder stores the urine temporarily. In the case of a bladder defect, the urine might leak out of the bladder . Children often urinate on the bed due to urinary incontinence.

Bladder infection or urinary tract infection is not a life-threatening condition but requires treatment at the earliest to avoid complications. Young children, especially infants and toddlers, cannot explain their symptoms, so the condition goes unnoticed in such cases. However, the parents must notice the signs of infection and report them to the doctor. The treatment comprises antibiotics that need to be taken as per the instructions given by the doctor. Along with antibiotics, drinking enough water and maintaining healthy bowel and bladder habits help prevent infections.

When To Get Medical Advice

Its a good idea to see your GP if you think you might have a UTI, particularly if:

• you have symptoms of an upper UTI
• the symptoms are severe or getting worse
• the symptoms havent started to improve after a few days
• you get UTIs frequently

Your GP can rule out other possible causes of your symptoms by testing a sample of your urine and can prescribe antibiotics if you do have an infection.

Antibiotics are usually recommended because untreated UTIs can potentially cause serious problems if theyre allowed to spread.

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Whats The Difference Between A Urinary Tract Infection And Bladder Infection

A urinary tract infection is a more general type of infection. There are many parts of your urinary tract. A UTI is a term for an infection that takes place throughout the urinary tract. A bladder infection, also called cystitis, is a specific infection. In this infection, bacteria makes its way into the bladder and causes inflammation.

Not all urinary tract infections become bladder infections. Preventing the spread of the infection is one of the most important reasons to treat a UTI quickly when you have symptoms. The infection can spread not only to the bladder, but also into your kidneys, which is a more complicated type of infection than a UTI.

What Are The Symptoms Of Bladder Infections In Men

Bladder infections are a common problem in men that is highly misunderstood. There are many varieties of bladder infections, and each one has a different cause and effect. The most common variety is due to acute bacterial infection which occurs when there is an imbalance of bacteria in the urinary tract. Once the balance of healthy bacteria is disturbed, it allows for the multiplication of the infection-causing bacteria. Below are some of the common symptoms of bladder infections:

• Frequent urination.
• Cloudy urine with a strong odor.
• Blood in the urine .
• Trouble urinating, especially if you have a problem with your prostate.

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