Bladder Infection in Men

As I was saying that bladder infection, also known as a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI), is more common in women than in men. This may be due to the reason that women have a short urethra; about an inch and a half long. So, due to this short distance, the bacteria which cause the infection, finds it easy to make its way to the bladder. However, this is not the case with men thus, they lie at a lesser risk of a bladder infection.

What Symptoms Indicate Bladder Infection?

Symptoms of bladder infection in men, are no different from those of women, except a few which may be specific to the latter. A burning sensation while urinating and a strong, persistent urge to urinate, happen to be the characteristic symptoms. Although, the urge to urinate may be strong and frequent, there would be less amount of urine that would be produced. Cloudy urine or urine color that is bright pink or cola colored, is also one of the typical symptoms in men and women. It is common for the urine odor to smell strong and unusual, rectal pain is also a specific symptom in men.

Causes of Bladder Infection

The bacteria Escherichia coli (E.coli) is responsible for causing the infection. The bacteria make their way into the urinary tract through the urethra and begins to grow and thrive in the bladder, giving rise to the infection and its symptoms. Generally, the urinary system has its defense mechanism set in such a way that it can easily ward off the invasion of such pathogens. However, at times, the system fails and is overtaken by the infection. Other class of bacteria such as staphylococcus saprophyticus, klebsiella, enterobacter, and proteus species, may also cause the same. How does this infection spreads? It may spread through sexual intercourse, and use of a diaphragm for birth control (in women). Most people are unaware of the fact that suppressing the urge to urinate and holding the urine for a long time, also increases the risk of bladder infection. A long wait causes the bladder muscles to stretch beyond their limit. And if this is continued, the muscles grow weaker and this results in partial emptying of urine from the bladder thus, leaving some urine in it. This is what increases the risk of harboring an infection.

Treatment

The first line of treatment for managing bladder infection is the use of antibiotics. The type of drugs and the duration of the use depends upon the health of the patient, and the kind of the bacteria causing the condition. The standard chart of medications which are administered includes:

• Sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim
• Amoxicillin
• Nitrofurantoin
• Ampicillin
• Ciprofloxacin
• Levofloxacin

Within a few days of treatment, most patients experience withdrawal of the symptoms. However, as a preventive measure against any recurrences and to ensure the complete eradication of the infection, the use of antibiotics is recommended to be continued.

Symptoms of bladder infection in men and women can be managed by using simple self-care at home, apart from taking medicines. These include drinking plenty of water, and refraining from drinks which seem to irritate the bladder. These may include coffee, alcoholic beverages, and citrus-based soft drinks. Using a heating pad can also help reduce bladder discomfort. And about preventing the infection, drink lots of water, keep your anal region clean and dry, do not fight the urge to urinate and avoid using any irritating products for the genital area.