Inflammation of Bladder Caused by Bacterial Infection

Cystitis, colloquially called bladder infection refers to an inflammation of the bladder, caused by a bacterial infection. The bacteria multiply in the urinary tract after penetrating it through the urethra (tube connected to bladder through which the urine passes).

Bladder infection is more common in women due to the proximity of the urethra to the exterior genital. The infection may be a result of various factors, for example, sexual intercourse, maintaining unhygienic physical conditions, long-term catheterization, urinary calculus (stone) which causes obstruction to the urine flow, drug reaction, radiation therapy, result of another illness, etc.

There are many symptoms of bladder infection, and itching, though possible, is not a very common symptom. The itchy feeling may actually be a burning sensation. The most common sign of bladder infection is urination accompanied by a burning feeling.

Other common symptoms of bladder infection are as follows:

A constant need to urinate
Though the need to urinate is constant, the amount of urine passed each time is very small.
Sometimes the urine comes with a little blood in it.
Foul smelling and/or cloudy urine
Pelvic discomfort
Fever
Feeling a lot of heaviness in the lower abdomen

In children, uncommon incidents of unintentional daytime wetting may also be a sign of urinary tract infection.

Bladder infections can cause a lot of discomfort and can be very painful. However, some home remedies and self-care treatments may provide relief from pain. Steps which can be taken include:

Heat therapy can be provided to the lower abdomen to reduce pain. You can use a heating pad for this purpose.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and fluids.
Avoid caffeine (coffee, alcohol, sodas) and citrus fruits and fruit juices. Also, avoid spicy foods. Your diet can affect the bladder by irritating it and increase the urge to use the toilet.
Try a sitz bath (sitting in a tub of warm water for about 15-20 minutes). The warm water can provide relief from pain in the lower part of the body, by increasing blood circulation in the rectal area.

Sometimes bladder infection can lead to complications if the infection spreads to the kidneys, therefore it is necessary to consult a doctor under the following circumstances.

Repeated bladder infections
Back pain or side pain
Fever and rigor (severe chills)
Nausea and/or vomiting
Painful urination which lingers for more than a day
Blood in the urine

References:

answered by G M

Bladder infection is associated with increased frequency of urination, fever, chills, burning and spasms in the bladder. The inability to empty the bladder results in continuous urge to urinate.

answered by r k

Do bladder infections itch