Not only are there different types of bladder problems but there are various reasons why these issues arise. Certain people are also more prone to having bladder issues. If you do suffer from bladder problems, there is a good chance you can relieve symptoms through good habits in addition to supplements and medication.

Types of bladder problems

The two most common types of bladder problems which you are likely to experience are Overactive Bladder (OAB) and Urinary Tract Infection (UTI), more specifically a bladder infection. Each of these bladder problems have different causes, symptoms and potential treatments. Something else which might occur as a result of bladder problems are bladder stones. Although certain issues are more complicated than others, there are things you can do in order to help reduce the risk of having bladder problems in the future. If you have bladder problems on a regular basis then you may be asking yourself why these issues reoccur. Speaking to your GP is advisable as your doctor may help to identify why you continue to suffer with bladder problems.

What is overactive bladder?

Around 12% of the total adult population suffer from an overactive bladder, also known as OAB syndrome. OAB syndrome is a condition which means you are incapable of holding your urine normally. Overactive bladder often gets confused with urinary incontinence however this is just a symptom linked to having an overactive bladder and is not a condition. People with overactive bladder can experience a range of symptoms. Having overactive bladder can cause anxiety and stress, impacting negatively on your quality of life by disrupting your daily routine and also your sleep pattern.

What can cause overactive bladder?

You may have overactive bladder for a range of different reasons. Your OAB may be a result of a medical condition, lifestyle choices or a combination of both. If you have overactive bladder there are also certain foods and drinks you may want to avoid, and also specific lifestyle choices you may have to make to ensure you do not worsen the problem. Overactive bladder is more common in the elderly and slightly more prevalent in women than it is in men, however this could be a consequence of females being more likely than males to report symptoms of OAB.

Which food and drink can worsen overactive bladder symptoms?

If you suffer from overactive bladder then you may be looking for ways to reduce the symptoms. Avoiding certain types of food and drink, switching to a healthier lifestyle and carrying out certain exercises might help to relieve some of these symptoms. We take a look at what you can do in order to relieve OAB symptoms below:

Tea and coffee – Although not necessarily a direct cause, the caffeine within both tea and coffee can exacerbate overactive bladder symptoms. Like alcohol (see below), caffeine is a diuretic which means it results in a greater urine output.

Alcohol – Limiting the amount of alcohol is also recommended if you have overactive bladder. The alcohol within the likes of beer, wine and spirits can disturb signals to the brain which are informing you that you have bladder overflow.

Citrus fruits – Fruits which fall into this category include lemons, oranges, limes and grapefruits. Research has shown that citric acid worsens bladder control. You should still include fruits as part of your diet but less acidic options like apples and bananas are recommended.

Tomatoes & tomato related products – Just like the fruits mentioned above, tomatoes contain citric acid which can irritate the bladder. There are also a range of tomato-based products which can exacerbate bladder problems too, such as pasta sauce, salsa and ketchup.

Carbonated Drinks – Aggravation to the bladder can be caused by carbonated drinks if you have OAB. The culprit seems to be the fizz within these drinks. Carbonated drinks which also contain caffeine can provide a double whammy for those struggling with overactive bladder.

Spicy (Hot) Foods – Spicy and hot foods, containing chilli peppers and spices, can cause irritation to the bladder. However, if you have overactive bladder and are a fan of spicy food then it is a good idea to experiment first before cutting out your favourite spicy foods altogether.

Processed Foods – The problem with processed foods is that they contain artificial flavourings and preservatives which can irritate the bladder and increase OAB symptoms.

Sweeteners – These are often used as a substitute for sugar in many soft drinks. Both artificial and natural sweeteners, however, can further increase the severity of overactive bladder.

Cranberries – Although cranberries and cranberry juice are considered effective for relieving symptoms of UTI’s and bladder infections (more about that later) they are not recommended for OAB because the acidic nature of cranberries can irritate the bladder.

Onions – Onions, particularly when raw, are said to cause people with overactive bladder to have an increased urge to urinate. Cooked onions are considered a better option for those with OAB

What is a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)?

A Urinary Tract Infection is an infection in any part of the urinary tract which includes the kidneys, bladder and urethra. Here are the specific names for these three different types of UTI:

Bladder Infection – Cystitis

Urethra Infection – Urethritis

Kidney Infection – Pyelonephritis

As we are focusing primarily on bladder problems, we will take a closer look at cystitis, its symptoms, causes, and how this infection can be both prevented and treated. 

What is cystitis?

Cystitis, which is also known as a bladder infection or water infection, is inflammation of the bladder and is among the most common forms of UTI. It is caused by bacteria entering the bladder via the urethra, which is the tube which carries urine out of the body. Although uncomfortable and irritating, cystitis is not usually considered a serious problem and either antibiotics or natural supplements (or a combination of both) can usually relieve symptoms quickly. Mild cystitis will often go away naturally without any treatment at all. However, some bladder infections which are left untreated can lead to more serious problems like kidney infections. Bladder infections are more common in women than they are in men as a result of the female urethra being short and also its closer proximity to the anus.

What makes you more likely to suffer from cystitis?

Being sexually active (women) – Females will sometimes get cystitis from having sex as a result of bacteria entering the urinary tract via the urethra. It is recommended that women pee after sex as this can cleanse the urethra from potentially harmful bacteria which could cause infection.

Wiping from Back to Front (women) – After going to the toilet it is recommended that females wipe from front to back as this will help to prevent bacteria from entering the urethra.

Having a urinary catheter (thin tube) inserted into your urethra to help to drain the bladder of urine

If you are pregnant – This can place greater pressure on the bladder and therefore make you more susceptible to getting cystitis

Having diabetes – High sugar levels in the urine can make the bladder a breeding ground for bacteria. 

Using a diaphragm for contraception – Spermicides in diaphragms can kill ‘good’ bacteria in the vagina and therefore increase the chances of ‘bad’ causing infections

Having a weakened immune system – Your immune system may have an overaction to a previous infection and this can therefore make you more prone to bladder infections in the future

What to do for Cystitis?

If you have cystitis then you will want to relieve the symptoms quickly, particularly if you are experiencing pain when you go to the toilet. There are ways in which you can potentially relieve cystitis symptoms without having to visit your GP and these are:

Drink plenty of water – This helps to ‘flush out’ bacteria from your bladder and will hopefully lead to a quicker recovery from your bladder infection

Take natural supplements like D-mannose – which is a natural sugar. You can also take cranberry capsules to help relive the symptoms of cystitis.

Take ibuprofen or paracetamol – This will provide pain relief from cystitis

Urinate frequently – Pee regularly and ensure you empty your bladder fully when you go to the toilet

Avoid having sex – This could agitate the area further, may cause pain and could lead to more bacteria entering the bladder

When should you visit your GP for cystitis treatment?

If you are struggling to get rid of cystitis or have particularly bad symptoms, then you should visit your GP. It is likely that your GP will prescribe you antibiotics in order to eradicate the infection.

D-mannose for recurrent cystitis and prevention

This simple sugar has been used by those suffering from recurrent cystitis. It is thought that D-mannose has the capability to eradicate the harmful E. Coli bacteria which causes cystitis in the first place by attaching itself to the bacteria before being removed from the urinary tract during urination. D-mannose is considered safe for long-term use with the vast majority of people who have taken D-mannose reporting no side-effects. D-mannose can be bought in either capsule or powder form. If you suffer from bladder infections on a regular basis then you may see D-mannose as a potential long-term alternative to antibiotics and a natural way of managing and preventing cystitis.

Cranberry capsules for recurrent cystitis and prevention

Studies have shown that Cranberry Capsules can be effective when it comes to tackling recurrent bladder infections and UTI’s. Cranberry contains something called A-type proanthocyanidins (PACs) and this helps to prevent the E. coli bacteria from adhering to the bladder wall and causing cystitis.

What are Bladder Stones?

Bladder stones form within the bladder as hard lumps of minerals. Both men and women can get bladder stones, but they are more prevalent in men over the age of 50.

What causes bladder stones?

Bladder Stones occur when you cannot fully empty your bladder of urine. One of the waste products in urine is called urea. This waste product is made up of nitrogen and carbon and if urine remains in your bladder the chemicals within urea will form crystals which harden over time to form bladder stones.  

What makes you more prone to getting bladder stones?

Having an enlarged prostate (men) – Prostates are a small gland, found only in men, between the penis and the bladder. Older men might experience enlarged prostate, and this causes the prostate to press on the urethra and therefore block the flow of urine. If this is not treated, then this can lead to an increased risk of getting bladder stones.

Neurogenic Bladder – This refers to the nerves which control the bladder being damaged. This nerve damage prevents someone with Neurogenic Bladder from emptying their bladder fully. This can be caused by damage to nerves in the spine in addition to motor neurone disease and spina bifida. Those with neurogenic bladder usually have a tube named a catheter inserted in order to drain the bladder but this can still leave some urine inside the bladder.

Cystocele (women) – This a condition which only affects women. Cystocele causes the bladder wall to become weaker and drop down into the vagina, therefore blocking the flow of urine out of the bladder. 

Poor Diet – It is unusual for bladder stones to be a result of a poor diet in the UK and is much more common in the developing world. A diet which is rich in foods containing high amounts of fat, salt and sugar and not containing enough vitamins including vitamin A and B makes it more likely for bladder stones to develop.

How do you know if you have got bladder stones?

If you are displaying any symptoms of bladder stones including abdominal pain and cloudy/dark urine, then you need to go and see your GP. Here is how your doctor will diagnose bladder stones:

Urinalysis – This is used to identify any crystallisation, infection or any another abnormality in your urine.

CT Scan – The specific type of CT scan used to diagnose bladder stones is called a Spiral CT scan and is more effective than normal CT scans. This scan will check for any complications within your bladder.

Pelvis ultrasound – By using soundwaves, this ultrasound is capable of creating images of the inside of your body and these will help your doctor to see if stones are present within your bladder. 

X-Rays and intravenous pyelogram

An X-Ray will be able to see inside the bladder and highlight any abnormalities which are present.

With an intravenous pyelogram, you will have a dye injected within your veins, flowing through your blood before reaching your bladder. The dye will help to bring any abnormal formation to the attention of doctors and an X-Ray will be taken to show these results.

How do you get rid of bladder stones?

Sometimes, bladder stones will pass naturally, particularly if they are small. If this is not possible then procedures must be taken to remove the stones:

Breaking bladder stones apart – This involves a small tube with a camera attached being inserted into the bladder to enable the doctor to see where the stone is. Once the stone has been located, a laser, ultrasound or alternative method is used to break the stones into smaller pieces before flushing them from the bladder.

Removing bladder stones through surgery – Sometimes the bladder stones are too large to be broken up and therefore need to be removed through surgery by your doctor. 

References

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/urinary-incontinence/symptoms-causes/syc-20352808

https://www.healthline.com/health/overactive-bladder-vs-urinary-incontinence-vs-uti

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14248–overactive-bladder-#:~:text=Overactive%20bladder%20describes%20a%20combination,Lifestyle%20changes%20may%20help.

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/bladder-stones/

https://www.healthline.com/health/11-foods-to-avoid-if-you-have-oab

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/urinary-tract-infections-utis/

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UTI Causes

UTI’s are caused when bacteria enter the urinary tract. This bacterium enters the urinary tract via the urethra which is responsible for carrying urine out of the human body. There are a number of causes of bacteria entering the urinary tract, including sexual intercourse, not keeping genitals and the surrounding areas clean and dry, not drinking enough fluids, and not going to the toilet when you need to urinate or being unable to empty your bladder fully. Pregnant women and people with lower immunity are also more prone to Urinary Tract infections.

Why more women than men get UTI’s

Everyone, from young children to the elderly can get a UTI, and as we have already mentioned, females are a lot more likely than males to get this infection. As a result of women suffering more frequently from UTI’s, most of the research carried out into this infection centres around females opposed to males. As a result, you will also find that more products and prevention methods are aimed at the female population.

UTI’s in Women

One of the main reasons for this is the length and position of the urethra within the female body. Women have a shorter urethra than men, and it is positioned closer to the anus, the part of the body which stool comes out of. A woman’s urethra is also closer to the vagina. Infection is therefore more likely to occur in women because bacteria from the anus contained in stool (poo) can enter the urinary tract more easily. 

Research has shown that some women are at higher risk than others of getting a UTI and these include:

• Pregnant women as pregnancy applies a greater amount of pressure on the Urinary Tract.
• Post-Menopausal women as this can lead to the depletion of hormones protecting the vagina.
• Women with a condition which makes it more difficult to fully empty the bladder including pelvic organ prolapse
• Women using certain types of birth control like diaphragms and spermicide.
• Those with diabetes
• Women with lower immunity
• Women who have suffered a spinal cord injury as this can make it difficult to fully empty the bladder

UTI’s in Men

As a result of the male urethral opening being at the end of the penis and therefore further away from the bladder, men are less likely than women to get UTI’s. Males still get UTI’s, however, and certain men are more likely to suffer than others, including:

• Men who regularly get kidney stones
• Males with an enlarged prostate
• Diabetic men
• Those who participate in anal intercourse without the use of a condom
• Men with a weakened immune system
• Uncircumcised men
• Men who find it difficult to completely empty their bladder including those with spinal cord injuries.

Types of Urinary Tract Infections & UTI Symptoms

The Urinary Tract, which is also known as the urinary system or renal system, contains the urethra, bladder, kidneys and ureters. A UTI can affect a specific part of the urinary tract and depending upon where in the urinary tract the infection takes place the causes and symptoms can be different. Below we look at the differences in these infections as well as the specific causes:

Cystitis

A common type of UTI is cystitis which occurs in the bladder and is sometimes also referred to as a bladder infection or water infection. Like with many types of UTI’s, cystitis is a lot more common in women than it is in men. As a result of the female urethra being short and close to the anus it makes it easier for bacteria to enter the urinary tract and therefore cause cystitis. 

Cystitis Causes

Women will sometimes get a bladder infection after sexual intercourse. Another cause of cystitis in women is wiping the bottom area from the back to the front. Other potential causes of cystitis are having a urinary catheter inserted and also using a diaphragm for contraception. Furthermore, friction from sex and certain types of chemicals within bubble baths and soap may also cause cystitis in women.

Cystitis Symptoms

There are a range of symptoms linked with cystitis in adults including:

• A burning sensation, stinging and pain when you are peeing.
• A sense that you need to pee again straight after going to the toilet
• Needing to go to the toilet on a more regular basis and urgently
• Dark, cloudy urine with a strong smell 
• A painful tummy, particularly in the lower part
• Feeling sick, tired and generally unwell and also getting aches and pains.
• Noticing blood in your urine

The symptoms for cystitis in children may include a high temperature of 38C or above. Other symptoms include tiredness and weakness, becoming irritable, not feeling like eating and generally having a reduction in appetite and vomiting.

Kidney Infection

Another part of the Urinary Tract which can become infected are the kidneys. A kidney infection usually occurs through cystitis when bacteria travel up through to the bladder into the kidneys. The majority of people who get cystitis will not get a kidney infection, but it is always important to try and treat cystitis straight away when you notice symptoms. If you do get a kidney infection, then it is especially important to seek treatment and help because if it is left untreated then this can cause permanent damage to the kidneys. If you, however, treat kidney infections in plenty of time then they will not cause any long-term harm.

Kidney Infection Symptoms

If you have a kidney infection, also known as acute pyelonephritis, then you might have the following symptoms:

• Pain in your upper back and side (flank)
• Shivery chills and shaking
• A high temperature or fever
• Nausea and Vomiting

Urethritis

Urethritis is inflammation of the urethra which sits at the bottom of the urinary tract. The urethra is a type of tube which transports urine from the bladder to outside the body. Urethritis can be caused by sexual activity and bacteria entering the urinary tract. 

Urethritis Symptoms

If you have urethritis, then you may have the following symptoms:

How to Treat Urinary Tract Infections

Firstly, if you have any of the symptoms mentioned above then you should see a doctor who will determine whether you have a Urinary Tract Infection or not. It is important that you begin treatment for a UTI like cystitis straight away before it develops into a more serious problem such as a kidney infection. Due to the uncomfortable and painful symptoms associated with UTI’s you will also be keen to get rid of this infection quickly because it can also affect your sleep and sex life. 

Getting Rid of a UTI Quickly 

If you have a UTI, you have a range of options when it comes to getting rid of it. People choose both synthetic and natural treatments for relieving the symptoms and getting rid of urinary tract infections.  

Antibiotics

If you have been informed by your doctor that you have a Urinary Tract Infection, then there is a good chance that they will prescribe you with Antibiotics. Antibiotics offer a quick and effective way of getting rid of UTI’s. They work by killing the bacteria that is causing the infection. Antibiotics are often seen as the obvious option for UTI’s but they are not always the best choice.

Bacteria Becomes Resistant to Antibiotics

One of the major disadvantages of using antibiotics, particularly on a regular basis is that the bacteria they are meant to destroy becomes resistant to the effectiveness of antibiotics over time. Research has shown that certain strands of bacteria including E. coli, the cause of most bladder infections, are showing an increasing resistance to antibiotics. This means that antibiotics are proving less effective in the treatment of Urinary Tract Infections. Doctors are therefore now more reluctant to prescribe antibiotics to those suffering from UTI’s. Another potential negative effect of antibiotics is that they may also damage good bacteria within the human body which could make you more prone to other infections.

Natural Alternatives to Antibiotics for UTI’s

As a result of antibiotics proving less effective in the treatment of UTI’s including cystitis, there has been an increasing emphasis on natural alternatives. Natural UTI treatments are seen as a safe, effective and long-term alternative to antibiotics. There are also occasions in which antibiotics are not necessary in the treatment of UTI’s, particularly in relation to minor, uncomplicated varieties.

D-mannose

D-mannose is a natural sugar which is found in fruit like cranberries. It is also produced, in very small quantities, by the human body. D-mannose is the Monosaccharide Isomer of Glucose which essentially means it is a close relation of glucose. It is referred to as a simple sugar, meaning D-mannose contains just one, singular molecule of sugar. It has a white colour and slightly sweetened taste. In recent years, D-mannose has grown in popularity due to its use in the treatment of UTI’s and bladder infections (cystitis) in particular.

How does D-mannose work? 

Research has been carried out to establish why D-mannose has proven effective in getting rid of UTI’s quickly. It is believed that once E. Coli bacteria enters the urinary tract it attaches itself to cells within the bladder and causes further infections. Research suggests that D-mannose stops the E. Coli from latching on to cells and helps to eradicate the E. Coli bacteria through urination. It is therefore considered to offer safe, quick and effective relief from cystitis and bladder infections. 

D-mannose for UTI’s

If you are looking to get rid of your UTI quickly and effectively in a natural way, there are plenty of D-mannose products available on the market for you to choose from. You can buy D-mannose powder which can simply be added to a glass of water before being consumed. The powder dissolves quickly in the water and is the preferred choice among people who either don’t like taking tablets or struggle to swallow them. If you would prefer tablets, there are also a vast array of different products available including coated varieties. You can buy D-mannose from reputable online natural supplement providers.

D-mannose Side Effects

The majority of people who take D-mannose do not report any side-effects. The side-effects which have been reported are not severe and include loose stools and diarrhoea. 

Cranberry

Like D-mannose, cranberry is another natural option in the treatment of UTI’s. Cranberries are a red fruit which grow on a species of evergreen dwarf shrubs. For many years, cranberry has been considered as a possible treatment for urinary tract infections. People with UTI’s have therefore chosen to drink cranberry juice and cranberry supplements with the aim of relieving the symptoms and eradicating the bacterial infection.

How to Prevent UTI’s

If you have had a UTI in the past, then you will be fully aware of the discomfort and pain this can cause and will be keen to prevent infections in the future. There are various ways in which you can help to prevent a UTI, including some everyday activities and habits:

Drink Plenty of Water

Drinking more water will result in you urinating on a more regular basis. During urination, bacteria in the urinary tract is flushed out and this can help to prevent infections from starting in the first place.

D-mannose Supplements

D-mannose is a natural supplement and unlike antibiotics, its effectiveness does not diminish over time. D-mannose is safe to take on a regular basis and if you have a history of UTI’s then taking 2 grams once a day could prove to be an effective preventative measure.

Cranberry Juice and Supplements

It is not harmful to drink cranberry juice or take cranberry-based supplements on a regular basis, so it therefore offers another safe, preventative option if you have suffered from UTI’s in the past.

Females should Wipe from Front to Back

After going to the toilet, females should wipe from front to back as this will prevent bacteria from the anal region from entering the vagina and urinary tract via the urethra.

Empty your Bladder after Sex

This will help to flush out any bacteria which has entered your urinary tract during intercourse. It is also recommended that you drink a glass of water after sex too.

Avoid Potentially Irritating Feminine Products

From powders to shower gels, soaps and bath salts, there are a range of products which could potentially irritate the urethra and cause an infection. Fragranced products can be a particular problem in this instance.

Change Birth Control Methods 

A range of contraceptive methods and products may lead to bacterial growth and UTI’s, including diaphragms and unlubricated and spermicide-treated condoms. 

UTI Summary

There are various types of UTI’s with the most common variety being cystitis which is a bladder infection affecting more women than men. Antibiotics are often prescribed for Urinary Tract Infections but are not always necessary. The bacteria causing the infection can become resilient to antibiotic treatment over time. Many people across the world are therefore turning to natural UTI treatment and prevention methods including D-mannose and Cranberry. If you have a bladder infection then it is recommended that you look take action to eradicate this quickly before the infection spreads to other parts of the urinary tract including the kidneys. 

Sources

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/urinary-tract-infections-utis/

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/urinary-tract-infection/symptoms-causes/syc-20353447

https://www.healthline.com/health/d-mannose-for-uti

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