What is a bladder infection?

Filter 4 answers by contributor:

  • PRACTITIONER
  • GROUP
  • AUTHOR
  • TV PERSONALITY
  • ALL
  1. The bladder is an organ within the urinary system. It holds urine before it is released out of the body through the urethra. The urinary system is designed to prevent bacteria from entering the urethra, but sometimes, for various reasons, bacteria enter through the urethra. Bacteria may multiply, travel up through the urethra, and settle in the bladder. If the infection remains localized in the bladder it is called cystitis. If not treated quickly, the bacteria may spread to the ureters and kidney, leading to other complications.

    The bladder is an organ within the urinary system. It holds urine before it is released out of the body through the urethra. The urinary system is designed to prevent bacteria from entering the urethra, but sometimes, for various reasons, bacteria... More
  2.  Joan Haizlip
     
    Joan Haizlip answered:

    A bladder infection or urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection caused by bacteria.  If bacteria get into the bladder, they can multiply in the urine and cause an infection.  Another name for UTI is cystitis.  Cystitis means inflammation of the bladder.   A bladder infection must be treated or it can spread to your kidneys (pyelonephritis).  

    More Related Answers from Joan Haizlip
    A bladder infection or urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection caused by bacteria.  If bacteria get into the bladder, they can multiply in the urine and cause an infection.  Another name for UTI is cystitis.  Cystitis means... More
  3. Healthwise
     
    Healthwise answered:

    Bladder infection (cystitis) is the most common infection of the lower urinary tract. Bladder infection is usually caused by bacteria that get into the bladder by traveling up the urethra.

    Bladder infections are more common in women than in men.

    Symptoms of a bladder infection can range from mild to severe, and may include:

    • Burning pain with urination (dysuria).
    • The frequent need to urinate without being able to pass much urine (frequency).
    • Blood in the urine (hematuria).

    Symptoms of a bladder infection in children depend on the age of the child. A very young child may cry when urinating or may vomit due to the bladder infection. It may be hard to know if the symptoms are a result of urinary problems or another cause.

    If untreated, bladder infections can lead to more serious kidney infections that cause fever and lower back (flank) pain, and may damage the kidneys. Bladder infections are treated with antibiotics.


    More Related Answers from Healthwise
    Bladder infection (cystitis) is the most common infection of the lower urinary tract. Bladder infection is usually caused by bacteria that get into the bladder by traveling up the urethra. Bladder infections are more common in women than in men.... More
  4. Intermountain Healthcare
     
    Bladder infections, also called urinary tract infections (UTIs), are fairly common. They happen when germs called bacteria get in your bladder or another part of the urinary system. Women get UTIs more often than men do.

    If you think you have a UTI, call the doctor or clinic. Without treatment, this infection can become serious. Also learn how to prevent UTIs and what you can do on your own to feel better.
    More Related Answers from Intermountain Healthcare
    Bladder infections, also called urinary tract infections (UTIs), are fairly common. They happen when germs called bacteria get in your bladder or another part of the urinary system. Women get UTIs more often than men do. If you think you have... More