A bladder infection is one of the most common diseases that affects people of all ages. The disease manifests itself very unpleasantly - accompanied by fever, muscle pain and general weakness of the body. Sometimes these symptoms are joined by other ailments that make you constantly run to the toilet. The most common cause of the disease is bacteria, viruses, fungi or chlamydia. Very often, especially in men, the disease is caused by gonorrhea. Let's take a closer look at the symptoms and treatment of bladder infections in children and adults.
Imp. Incidence
Infection of the urinary system occurs due to the presence of germs (mainly bacteria) in it. Under normal conditions, in a he althy person, the path above the sphincter of the bladder issterile. However, in some situations, microorganisms penetrate there, which begin to multiply in a favorable environment for them. This is what causes inflammation, which is referred to in medical terminology as a UTI or urinary tract infection. What is this pathology?
The vast majority of cases are bladder infections, also called cystitis.
Much more serious is the disease caused by bacteria entering one or both kidneys through the ureter, resulting in pyelonephritis.
According to statistics, this disease most often occurs in women. The vast majority of the fairer sex had a UTI at least once in their lives. Bladder infection in women is most often associated with pregnancy and the postpartum period. Among men, most cases occur in the elderly (this is due to a violation of the outflow of urine, for example, due to an enlarged, inflamed prostate).
Children are often affected by this disorder in cases of existing disorders in the bladder (reverse vesicoureteral reflux). It is important here to distinguish between the onset of symptoms in children and adults.
Causes of disease
The most common bladder infection is bacterial. The main causative agent is Escherichia coli (abbreviated as E. coli), which is responsible for 50-95% of cases of the disease. It has special structures called pili that allow adhesion to the urinary tract. This intestinal infection in the bladdercan enter from the anus, and in rare cases, the bacterium is able to enter one or both kidneys. If the inflammation is caused by Escherichia coli and there are no other contributing factors, an uncomplicated UTI occurs. This disease almost always occurs in women of childbearing age.
Viruses are less common causes of illness and are almost always transmitted through sexual contact. Fungi cause disease mainly in humans:
- diabetics;
- treated with antibiotics;
- after urinary tract surgery;
- after taking immunosuppressants.
The disease affects women more often than men. This is due to anatomical differences in the structure of the urinary tract:
- shorter urethra;
- small distance of the urethra from the anus;
- colonization of the urinary tract with germs from the vagina, etc.
This makes it easier for microorganisms to settle in and multiply.
UTIs are a common problem in children too. In the first months of life, this disease often affects boys. And at an older age, the risk of developing the disease in girls is higher. Bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Proteus species and Staphylococcus saprophiticus are most often responsible for the development of symptoms of the disease.
UTIs in children are almost always formed through the invasion of pathogens from the lower parts of the urinary system. Rarely, inflammation is the result of blood poisoning (eg, sepsis).
Risk factors
Things that increase the risk of bladder and kidney infections include:
- urolithiasis;
- vesicoureteral reflux, i.e. an abnormal bladder (this is a congenital disorder most common in children);
- diabetes mellitus;
- pregnancy and childbirth;
- old age;
- bladder catheter.
Symptoms of illness in adults
In the case of a UTI, there are general and local symptoms (i.e. associated with the urinary tract).
Locals include:
- Impaired urination, accompanied by pain, burning (dysuria).
- Frequent bowel movements.
- Urine at night (nocturia).
- Pain in the kidneys. These organs are located in the lumbar region, that is, in the lower back, above the pelvis. It is in this place that pain occurs.
General, more often non-specific symptoms include:
- high fever, sometimes with chills;
- nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain;
- headaches,
- general weakness.
Red or dark brown urine may be due to the presence of blood (hematuria), which is the result of inflammation of the lining of the bladder. If a kidney infection occurs, a high temperature (above 38 °C) almost always occurs. There may be pain on one or both sides, nausea and vomiting. Signs of kidney disease may appear several days afterthe appearance of symptoms of inflammation of the bladder.
Bladder infection: symptoms in children
Diagnosis of UTIs in children is often complicated by the absence of characteristic symptoms, so almost every child with a high fever can be suspected of the disease.
Inflammation of the urinary tract in children can have several clinical forms:
- Asymptomatic bacteriuria. The only sign of illness is an increased number of bacteria in the baby's urine.
- Asymptomatic urinary tract infection. The disease manifests itself in the form of an increase in the number of bacteria and white blood cells in the urine.
- Infection of the lower urinary tract (cystitis in children). Additional tests reveal bacteriuria and pyuria. A small patient has frequent urination, anxiety, agitation, pain during the passage of urine. Sometimes blood may appear in the urine (hematuria).
- Acute pyelonephritis. Symptoms of the disease depend on the age of the patient. Older children complain of pain in the lumbar region or abdomen. The disease may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, high fever, which exceeds 38 degrees. In infants, pyelonephritis presents with high fever, pain, bloating, vomiting, and symptoms of meningitis. In newborns, the disease can occur in the form of hypothermia (low body temperature), vomiting, nervous system disorders, cyanosis, prolonged jaundice, and even sepsis and septic shock. Additional tests show bacteriuria, pyuria, accelerated ESR, increased CRP, and increased white blood cell count.
- Chronicpyelonephritis in children. The disease presents with recurrent bacteriuria and pyuria, impaired renal function, and often hypertension.
Diagnosis
To diagnose which bladder infections are causing the disease, use:
- Common urinalysis. An increase in the number of white blood cells confirms the presence of inflammation in the body. Blood (erythrocytes) and protein may also be present in the urine.
- Bacteriological examination of urine. This analysis allows you to identify the microorganism that causes the inflammatory process, as well as determine the concentration (number) of bacteria. The culture result is usually available in about 48 hours. It indicates whether there are bacteria in the urine test, what types and how much. If the number of one type of microorganisms exceeds 1000 per 1 milliliter of urine, the result confirms the presence of the disease. In such cases, the sensitivity of the bacteria to antibiotics (called an antibiogram) is also determined, which helps the doctor choose the appropriate treatment.
- Blood test. The purpose of the test is to determine the so-called C-reactive protein, ESR and leukocytosis. Their increase indicates an inflammatory process in the body.
- Bacteriological blood test. The analysis is carried out in severe forms of UTI, in which microbes enter the bloodstream.
When a doctor suspects urinary abnormalities or complications, they may prescribe:
- ultrasound examination of the kidneys and urinary tract;
- urography;
- computed tomography.
If urine tests do not confirm a bladder infection, and women continue to have symptoms, they should undergo a gynecological examination (suspected vaginitis), consider urethritis (venereal disease). Sometimes it becomes necessary to undergo specialized urological examinations (cystoscopy).
Treatment of women
The main symptoms of bladder infections in women may be accompanied by additional manifestations. This includes fever, vomiting, etc. In some cases, especially in the initial stages, the disease may be asymptomatic. As a rule, the doctor prescribes antibiotics. The course lasts from three to seven days. Drugs aimed at treating bladder infections are prescribed based on the results of studies. The most effective remedy is Trimethoprim. It is taken either alone or in combination with Sulfamethoxazole, Nitrofurantoin or Ciprofloxacin. Symptoms of the disease begin to disappear 1-3 days after the start of the therapeutic course. Depending on the complexity of the course of the disease, treatment is carried out both in a hospital and at home.
In case of inflammation of the kidneys, when high fever and vomiting are added to the general symptoms, hospitalization of the patient is required. The patient is prescribed intravenous and intramuscular drugs, aimed not only at treating the underlying disease, but also at strengthening the immune system. The course of antibiotic therapy usually lasts 10-14 days. Antibioticsfor infections of the bladder and kidneys are the most effective treatment. A week or two after the end of the course of therapy, you must retake a urine test.
It is very important to diagnose the disease in time and start its treatment. Complications of the disease, such as a kidney abscess, can be life-threatening. In these cases, urological treatment is necessary to ensure urine flow and drainage of abscesses.
Pregnant women are more prone to urinary tract diseases than others. It is imperative to treat the disease. In this case, you can not self-medicate, the drugs should be selected exclusively by a doctor. Sometimes there may be no signs of inflammation, and the disease can only be detected by bacteriological examination of urine (asymptomatic bacteriuria).
Treating a bladder infection in pregnant women is quite difficult, as many drugs are contraindicated during this period. The most sparing antibiotics are considered "Amoxicillin" and "Cefalexin". Trimethoprim and Nitrofurantoin are also used. However, these funds are contraindicated in the first trimester and immediately before childbirth. The therapeutic course of antibiotics for asymptomatic bacteriuria should not be shorter than 7 days. During the period of treatment of bladder infections in women during pregnancy, it is periodically necessary to take a bacteriological analysis of urine.
Among the drugs for cystitis, the most popular is Fugarin (analogue of Furazidin). In the pharmacy, the drug is dispensed withoutprescription. Available in the form of tablets of 50 mg or 100 mg. This drug inhibits the growth of bacteria in the urinary tract, quickly and effectively fights the symptoms of inflammation. It is used both for acute and recurrent cystitis, and also as a prophylactic. It should be remembered that the use of the drug should not be interrupted in a situation of improvement or relief of symptoms. The course of treatment must be completed, otherwise the disease may resume again. During pregnancy and young children (under 2 years old), Furagin can only be taken as directed by a doctor.
The single dose of this medicine for UTI is 100 mg (1 or 2 tablets depending on the dosage of the drug). On the first day, 4 such doses should be taken (every 6 hours), then 3 (every 8 hours). You need to drink the medicine with food, it is advisable to combine it with protein (for example, meat, dairy products, eggs). It is important to observe clear intervals between doses. The full course of treatment should last 7-8 days.
When using "Furagin" the color of the urine changes. It becomes intensely yellow and returns to normal after the end of treatment. During the course of therapy, alcohol should be avoided, because even a small amount of alcohol in combination with the drug can lead to a disulfiram-like reaction, which is manifested in an accelerated heart rate, facial flushing or excessive sweating.
Can the disease be completely cured?
Almost all cases of UTI are completely cured after complex therapy with antibacterial drugs. ATIn some cases, treatment can be very long. However, sometimes it is not possible to completely remove the pathogenic microflora from the body. Despite the fact that the treatment was successful, relapses occur.
In most cases, therapy is effective in combating the disease. After the end of treatment, after 1-2 weeks, you need to pass a control urine test for bacteriological culture.
Treatment for men
Bladder infections in men often cause various diseases:
- gonorrhea;
- chlamydia;
- mycoplasma;
- trichomelas.
The disease is common in young sexually active men. However, the risk group also includes elderly patients with prostatic hyperplasia. As a rule, a bladder infection in men is treated with antibiotics: Azithromycin and Ofloxacin. Home methods such as herbal baths can also help:
- daisies;
- sage;
- goldenrod;
- nettles;
- horsetail.
Treatment of inflammation of the bladder in men can be carried out using "Furagin", which inhibits the reproduction of bacteria, and also has antiprotozoal and antifungal effects. In a pharmacy without a prescription, you can buy drugs with cranberry extracts, parsley root, birch leaves, which have a diuretic and astringent effect (for example, Urosept, Nefrosept, Urosan).
Self-treatment, as well as ignoring the problem, can lead to negative consequences. If ado not eliminate the inflammatory process, the disease can develop into a chronic form, and cause life-threatening complications for the patient.
Antibiotics are very effective in such pathologies. However, it must be remembered that only a doctor should prescribe a course of therapy. If the medicine is chosen correctly, the occurrence of side effects is unlikely.
Don't self-medicate. There is a huge range of antibacterial agents, but they all have certain indications for use. The wrong drug or dosage can cause irreparable harm.
If the treatment is complete and the symptoms of the bladder infection do not disappear, you should immediately consult a doctor. Perhaps the drug was not very effective and you need to replace it with another drug.
Treatment of UTIs in children
Treatment of a child's bladder infection should be started as soon as the first symptoms are detected. Delay can lead to serious consequences, such as scarring of the kidney parenchyma. High-risk groups for this type of complication include:
- younger children;
- patients with acute pyelonephritis;
- children with vesicoureteral reflux.
The choice of the appropriate therapy depends on the age of the child and the type of UTI.
- The antibiotics recommended for neonatal cystitis and urinary tract infections are penicillins, aminoglycosides and third-generation cephalosporins.
- Babies and children inunder the age of 3 years who have been diagnosed with asymptomatic bacteriuria, Furagin, Trimetroprim or Cotrimoxazole are prescribed. In case of symptomatic urinary tract infection (eg, fever, abdominal pain, nausea), penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotics should be used.
- Older children with symptoms of cystitis and asymptomatic bacteriuria are prescribed Furagin, Trimethoprim, or Cotrimoxazole. Acute pyelonephritis requires the use of antibiotics from the group of penicillins or cephalosporins. After the end of the course of therapy, an additional three-week treatment with Trimetorim or Furagin is necessary.
Paracetamol and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed to relieve bladder pain. Before using the medicine, it is important to carefully study the instructions, which indicate the dosage, indications and contraindications for taking.
When treating a bladder infection in children, antibiotics should only be prescribed by a pediatrician or pediatric nephrologist.
Admission to a medical facility should be carried out in any of the following cases:
- the occurrence of sepsis or the presence of bacterial toxins in the blood;
- bladder infections accompanied by urinary tract obstruction;
- there are additional diseases;
- the patient is immunocompromised;
- have intolerance to liquids or medicines when administered orally;
- if a child under the age of two months has a hightemperature;
- if a UTI is suspected in a baby under one month old (in this case, inpatient treatment is mandatory, even if the baby does not have a high fever).
In case of disease caused by defects in the structure of the urinary tract or vesicoureteral reflux (grade IV or V), surgery is indicated.
In children with urinary tract defects, neurogenic bladder, urolithiasis and within 6 months after surgery, prophylactic treatment based on the administration of Nitrofurantoin or Trimethoprot is recommended.
UTI in children. How to prevent?
Given the prevalence of the disease in children and the complications that can occur after infection, it is important to know the principles of prevention:
- You need to monitor the hygiene of the genitals and from childhood instill in the child the basic rules for caring for the body.
- Timely treat inflammation of the perineum and vagina in girls.
- Prevent constipation.
- Monitor regular urination.
If infection does occur, you should immediately consult a doctor who will prescribe a course of antibiotic therapy.
Recommendations
Folk methods also help to get rid of the infection in the bladder. But this does not mean that you need to self-medicate and not go to the doctor. The recommendations listed below can only be used as an addition to the main course of therapy.
- Plenty of liquid,used in case of illness, it helps to quickly get rid of the pathogenic microflora that lives in the urinary tract and causes inflammation. It is recommended to drink 6-8 glasses of fluid per day.
- Cranberry juice has a unique healing property. It is recommended to drink it both in the treatment of the disease, and for the prevention. Cranberries contain beneficial compounds that prevent bacteria from sticking to the bladder wall and multiplying. So even if pathogenic microorganisms have entered the body, they will be unable to cause the development of infection, as they are quickly excreted from the body. It is best to drink fresh cranberry juice without added preservatives.
- People suffering from bladder infections, and especially when the disease recurs, should take additional vitamin C. This affects the acidification of the urine and thus prevents the development of pathogenic bacteria. However, you should be aware that this substance is not compatible with all antibacterial agents. Therefore, you need to check with the doctor whether it is possible to drink vitamin C, specifically in your case.
- Echinacea is a plant that stimulates the body's immune system. It can be used as a prophylactic and therapeutic agent for acute and chronic bacterial and viral diseases. It is sold in pharmacies in the form of tea, tablets and drops.
- Use essential oils of sandalwood, bergamot, juniper. The compounds contained in them have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial action,therefore they are used in the treatment of inflammation of the urinary tract. The above oils can be mixed and, after dilution, rubbed into the skin over the bladder.
How to reduce the pain of an inflamed bladder?
To reduce the pain caused by cystitis, warm poultices can be applied to the bladder area. Not only will they reduce pain, but they will also help stop the spread of inflammation. In case of high fever or pain, use Paracetamol.
Advice from nephrologists and urologists
The following tips are helpful for women with chronic bladder infections:
- Increase the amount of liquid in your diet. Drink one extra glass of water before each sexual intercourse.
- Avoid bubble baths and chemicals.
- You should empty your bladder before going to bed and immediately after intercourse.
- Avoid using intimate deodorants and vaginal spermicides.
- Cleanse your genitals every day and always before intercourse. Wipe in the direction from front to back, this will prevent intestinal infections from entering the bladder and other organs of the genitourinary system.
- If you suffer from vaginal dryness, use moisturizing or intimate gels - this will avoid irritation of the mucous membrane and reduce the risk of infection. It is best to use intimate hygiene lotions that contain live bacterial cultures. They maintain the natural pH level of the skin and mucous membranes.shells, have strong antibacterial, antiviral and fungicidal properties and do not cause irritation.
Recurrent infections in women are always associated with sexual activity. Therefore, they can, in agreement with the doctor, take a prophylactic single dose of an antibiotic after intercourse. In postmenopausal women, the use of estrogen administered vaginally may be beneficial. They help restore the normal bacterial flora, which inhibits the growth of disease-causing bacteria.
The article looked at the symptoms and treatment of bladder infections in women, men and children.
