Bladder Infection Symptoms

Bladder infections occur when bacteria invade the urinary tract. According to WebMd.com approximately 20% of women will experience a bladder infection at least once. Men are less likely to be affected, but as they age, an enlarged prostrate increases their risk of a bladder infection. According to the National Institutes of Health, risk of bladder infection is increased with the use of catheters, pregnancy, intercourse, menopause and diaphragms.

Common Symptoms

Itching and burning with an urgent need to urinate, but only passing small amounts of urine are classic symptoms of bladder infections. Patients with bladder infections may also experience symptoms of general malaise including weakness, lethargy, and feeling shaky.

Pain and Pressure

Pressure may be felt above the pubic bone, or, for men, in the rectum. In addition, urine may be cloudy or contain blood.

Age

Symptoms of bladder infection vary with age. Adults rarely have fevers, but they are a common sign of a bladder infection in children. In the elderly, bladder infections result in confusion accompanied by incontinence.

Kidney Infection

Untreated bladder infections can progress to kidney infections. Signs of a kidney infection include fever, back pain, nausea and vomiting.

Treatment

Antibiotics are prescribed to fight bladder infections. Relief is experienced in a day or two, but patients should take all antibiotics as prescribed to prevent reoccurrence of a bladder infection or progression to a more serious kidney infection.

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