What Is The Fastest Way To Get Rid Of A Bladder Infection

Symptoms Of A Bladder Infection

As you learn about what is the fastest way to get rid of a bladder infection, you need to be aware of the signs and symptoms. If you or someone you know is experiencing the following symptoms, it may indicate a bladder infection:

• Pain or Burning Sensation During Urination: This is often the first sign many people notice. It can be sharp or persistent, making the act of urinating uncomfortable.

• Frequent Urination: The urge to urinate more often than usual, even if the volume is minimal.

• Urgency to Urinate: A sudden need to urinate may be harder to control.

• Hematuria: Presence of blood in the urine, which can give it a pink or reddish tint.

• Lower Abdominal Discomfort: A dull ache or pain in the lower abdomen or pelvic region.

• Altered Urine Appearance: Urine that appears dark, cloudy, or has a potent odour.

• General Malaise: Feeling unwell, fatigued, or under the weather without a clear reason.
  

   

How To Get A Bladder Infection Diagnosed

Identifying a bladder infection is crucial for effective treatment to get rid of a bladder infection quickly. Typically, the diagnosis process begins with a simple urine test. This test can provide insights into the presence and nature of the infection. 

Here's a breakdown of the diagnostic methods:

Urinalysis: This is a test where the urine is examined for the presence of white blood cells. A higher count of these cells can indicate an ongoing infection in the urinary tract.

Urine Test: Examination of a urine sample in a laboratory. The aim is to encourage the growth of bacteria from the sample. This confirms the presence of an infection and identifies the specific bacteria responsible. Furthermore, it helps in determining the most effective antibiotic for treatment.

For those who experience bladder infections repeatedly, more in-depth diagnostic procedures might be necessary, especially on how to get rid of a bladder infection quickly.

These tests can identify underlying issues in the urinary system or detect the presence of kidney stones:

1. Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: This imaging test provides detailed visuals of the urinary tract, helping in spotting abnormalities or obstructions.
2. Ultrasound: A non-invasive method, ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of the kidneys, bladder, and surrounding structures.
3. Cystoscopy: In this procedure, a thin tube with a camera (cystoscope) is inserted into the urethra to examine the bladder's interior. This is useful in identifying issues within the bladder lining or urethra

    

Finding Treatment For A Bladder Infection

As you follow our guidance on how to get rid of a bladder infection quickly, you should also be aware of treatment methods that can ease the process. 

Antibiotics: 

Antibiotics target and eliminate the bacteria responsible for the infection. While they can be highly effective, you should consult your GP regarding your symptoms first. This ensures a thorough eradication of the bacteria and reduces the risk of recurrence.

Pain Management: 

Some medications are designed to numb the bladder and urethra, relieving the burning sensation often associated with UTIs. These can be available both over-the-counter and by prescription.

Home Remedies: 

As well as medical expertise, several home remedies can help in getting rid of a bladder infection fast:

• Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter pain medications can help manage discomfort.

• Stay Hydrated: Drinking fluids can help flush out bacteria. (NOTE: these fluids should not be non-bladder irritants; use these bladder–friendly drinks in your daily routines). 

• Warmth: Applying a hot water bottle to the lower abdomen can soothe pain.

• Loose Clothing: Wearing non-restrictive clothing can reduce irritation.

• Frequent Urination: Regularly emptying the bladder can prevent bacterial multiplication.

• Limit Sexual Activities: Avoid sexual intercourse during an active infection to prevent further irritation.

• Bed Protection: To further protect your sleeping routines from potential bladder infection leaks, consider using incontinence bed protection. 
  

   

How To Prevent A Bladder Infection

To prevent a bladder infection, you must understand what’s good for bladder infections, to ease and relieve pain. Increasing fluid intake, for instance, can aid in flushing out potential irritants and bacteria from the urinary system. Additionally, urinating immediately after intercourse is recommended. While there isn't concrete evidence to suggest this directly prevents bladder infections, urinating can help expel germs that might have entered the bladder during sex.

Switching to alternative birth control methods might also reduce the risk of bladder infections. For postmenopausal women, vaginal oestrogen can be beneficial too. If you or someone that you know has become pregnant, make sure to be aware of the correlation between pregnancy and incontinence.

Maintaining good hygiene practices is also important to prevent a bladder infection. For example, wiping from front to back after bowel activity can prevent the transfer of bacteria from the anal region to the urethra. Use MoliCare© skin barrier cream as part of your toiletry routines.  

Further tips to prevent a future bladder infection include:

• Regularly drinking 8 cups of water.
• Urinate when necessary.
• Changing underwear daily.

• Changes in diet (if recommended by GP).

The Fastest Way To Get Rid Of A Bladder Infection

In truth, the fastest way to get rid of a bladder infection is by consulting your GP. Of course, you are welcome to follow the tips and guidelines recommended in this article, but these should only be brought forward once your bladder infection has been diagnosed. For further tips and guidance regarding bladder and other incontinence-related issues in regards to how to control and prevent cystitis. 

FAQs

Can you flush out a bladder infection?

Drinking plenty of water can help flush bacteria from the urinary system, potentially reducing the severity or duration of the infection. However, water alone is unlikely to completely cure a bladder infection, especially if it's more severe or caused by resistant bacteria. Antibiotics prescribed by your GP will aid in treating and eliminating the infection.

How long does it take to flush out a bladder infection?

The duration of a bladder infection varies depending on its severity and the treatment used. With appropriate antibiotic treatment, symptoms usually improve within 1-3 days. Without treatment, the infection can persist, worsen, or spread to the kidneys.