6 Ways to SPOT a Bladder Infection
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted February 10, 2024
A bladder infection, or cystitis, is an inflammation of the bladder usually caused by a bacterial infection.
It’s the most common type of urinary tract infection (UTI).
Bladder infections shouldn’t be ignored. Many are mild, but they can become more serious if they aren’t addressed. And in the worst cases, they can turn septic (which is when there’s an infection in your bloodstream).
But spotting a bladder infection can be tricky unless you KNOW what to look for…
Bladder infections are typically caused by E. coli bacteria from the gastrointestinal tract entering the urethra and traveling to the bladder.
The bacteria attach to the bladder wall and multiply, causing inflammation, irritation, and infection.
The most common and recognizable symptom of a bladder infection is a burning sensation when urinating called dysuria.
But there are other symptoms to keep an eye out for…
- Frequent and urgent need to urinate, even when little comes out when you try
- Feeling like you still need to go after peeing
- Cloudy, bloody, foul-smelling, or dark urine
- Lower abdominal pain or pelvic discomfort
- Low-grade fever or chills (less common)
In addition, if you’re a senior, you may experience mental confusion or agitation along with the usual urinary symptoms.
Bladder infections are seldom serious. But you should consider calling your doctor if you suspect you have one. Together, you can decide on the best approach to treating the infection.
Antibiotics may be prescribed. But many doctors are okay with “watchful waiting” and using home remedies such as cranberry, d-mannose, and water if the infection doesn’t worsen.
You should seek urgent care if you have a high fever, back or side pain, or vomiting, as these can be signs of a kidney infection.
Your best bet, of course, is to AVOID an infection in the first place.
And I’ll have some tips for doing precisely that in TOMORROW’S edition of Living Well Daily. Be sure to check your inbox for it.
P.S. “Forest Fix” CONQUERS chronic UTIs.
Source:
“Definition & Facts of Bladder Infection in Adults,” National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, niddk.nih. gov
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
View More Free Articles
Do THIS Every 20 Minutes to STOP Digital Eye Strain
Our eyes are under assault—they are the true victims of our current digital age. And it’s because we are constantly glued to screens… phones, tablets, computers, TVs—you name it. Unfortunately, that screen time is taking a serious toll. Digital eye strain affects millions worldwide. In fact, up to 50 percent of computer users could develop...
Mailbag: The Calcium Mistake That's Hardening Your Arteries
“What type of calcium is best to take with bisphosphonates for osteoporosis? I know some varieties can build up in arteries. Thanks for the help.” —Bone Builder Hi Builder, When a patient asks me about calcium, I ask them a peculiar question in return… “Ever wonder how elephants and giraffes build and maintain their massive...
Doctor-Approved Method to Ditch Blood Pressure Meds
In a world where drug solutions dominate healthcare, it’s refreshing to discover that best remedies sometimes don’t involve a single pill. A groundbreaking study shows simple relaxation techniques could be your secret weapon against one of America’s deadliest health conditions. Best of all? It’s free, easy to start right away—and your results are bound to...
Trouble Hearing? Your Heart Could Be at Risk
With research exploding and data pouring in, scientists are uncovering some weird (and surprisingly helpful) health connections. Today’s odd couple? Hearing loss and heart failure. Turns out your ears and your ticker are more connected than you ever imagined. A major study published in the journal Heart looked at over 164,000 people for nearly a...
Stay Up Late? It Could Destroy Your Mental Health
If you dread mornings but come alive at night, there’s concerning new research you need to know about. A recent study found that “night owls” are at higher risk for depression. But before you rush to set your alarm to get up with the sun tomorrow, there’s more to the story… Chronotypes are essentially your...
Go from Flabby to Fit with this Common Vitamin
If you’re like many of us, you woke up one day, looked in the mirror, and realized you’re no spring chicken anymore. Even worse—when you weren’t paying attention—it seems you somehow misplaced the muscles of your youth and have gone from fit to flabby. Aging has a way of humbling us like that. But scientists...
Seasonal Allergy “Off Switch” Discovered in the GUT
“Doc, why am I suddenly suffering from seasonal allergies when I’ve never had them before?” It’s a question I get all the time—and my answer might surprise you. Stop looking up at the trees—and start looking down at your gut… Your sneezing fits, itchy eyes, and runny nose might have more to do with what’s...
“Canary in the Coal Mine” Test Sniffs Out Brain Issues Early
One of the most common questions I get is how to tell if you’re starting to experience cognitive decline. I get it—losing your memory is scary, especially when it sneaks up on you. But here’s some exciting news that might put your mind at ease. A fascinating new study suggests that your nose might be...
BEAT Stubborn Leg Swelling Without Dangerous Diuretics
“I need help with edema.” —Swollen Hi Swollen, When patients complain of edema—fluid retention that causes feet, ankles, and legs to swell—I explain that, while conventional medicine immediately prescribes diuretic drugs, nature offers us effective solutions we can try first. I’ll share those in just a moment, but first, let’s take a quick look at...
Mental Health Linked to 30% FASTER Aging [6-Step FIX]
Your mind and body are more connected than you might realize—and a groundbreaking new study proves just how profound that connection really is. In fact, it’s this mind-body link that helps explain why battling depression can put you on the fast track to physical decline. Depression is the most common mental health condition worldwide. We’ve...