Health Info > Infections Published on : January 20, 2025

Bladder infection symptoms: Expert GP advice on next steps

Written by Dr Gosagan Gopalakrishnan, BSc (Hons), MBChB, DRCOG, MRCGP, FRACGP

Bladder infections, a type of urinary tract infection (UTI), are common and can cause significant discomfort. If you suspect you have a bladder infection, understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options can help you take the right steps towards recovery. Here, we provide expert GP advice to guide you through managing bladder infections effectively.

What is a bladder infection?

A bladder infection, also known as cystitis, occurs when bacteria enter the bladder and multiply, leading to inflammation. While it’s more common in women due to the shorter length of the urethra, men and children can also experience bladder infections. Left untreated, these infections can travel to the kidneys, causing more severe complications.

Also read: UTI symptoms in men: main causes & remedies

Symptoms

Bladder infections typically present with several hallmark symptoms, including:

Frequent urination: Feeling the need to urinate more often than usual, even if little urine is passed.
Burning sensation: A stinging or burning feeling during urination.
Cloudy or strong-smelling urine: Urine may appear cloudy or have an unusually strong odour.
Lower abdominal pain: A feeling of pressure or discomfort in the pelvic area.
Blood in urine: Some individuals notice traces of blood, giving urine a pink or reddish tint.
Fatigue or malaise: General tiredness or feeling unwell.

If fever, chills, flank or back pain develop, it may indicate the infection has spread to the kidneys, requiring urgent medical attention.

Causes

Bladder infections are often caused by bacteria, particularly Escherichia coli (E. coli), which naturally resides in the gut. Factors that increase the risk of bladder infections include:

Poor hygiene practices: Wiping incorrectly after using the toilet can transfer bacteria to the urethra.
Sexual activity: Sexual intercourse can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract.
Urinary retention: Not fully emptying the bladder allows bacteria to thrive.
Weakened immune system: Conditions like diabetes can make individuals more susceptible.
Menopause: Hormonal changes can reduce the bladder’s ability to defend against infections.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing a bladder infection typically involves:

Symptom review: Your GP will ask about your symptoms and medical history.
Urine test: A simple urine dipstick test can identify signs of infection. For recurrent or complicated infections, a urine culture may be ordered to pinpoint the exact bacteria.
Additional tests: In cases of recurrent infections or when symptoms are unclear, imaging tests such as ultrasounds or CT scans may be recommended to assess the urinary tract.

What to do – treatment

Bladder infection symptoms and what to do

Most bladder infections are straightforward to treat, and early intervention can prevent complications. Treatment options include:

Antibiotics: These are the first-line treatment for bacterial bladder infections. Your GP will prescribe a short course that would treat the most common bacteria causing bladder infections. If you fail to respond to this initial course, your GP may give you an antibiotic, tailored to the specific bacteria causing your infection.
Pain relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can help alleviate discomfort.
Hydration: Drinking plenty of water helps flush out bacteria from the bladder.
Avoid irritants: Caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods can worsen symptoms and should be avoided.

For recurrent bladder infections, your GP may explore preventive measures, such as:

Taking a low-dose antibiotic for a prolonged period.
Using a topical oestrogen cream if postmenopausal.
Adjusting hygiene practices to reduce bacterial exposure.

Bladder infection while pregnant – next steps

Pregnancy increases the risk of bladder infections due to hormonal changes and the growing uterus pressing on the bladder. Untreated infections during pregnancy can lead to complications, such as premature labour or low birth weight. If you’re pregnant and suspect a bladder infection, seek medical attention promptly. Your GP may recommend a urine test and prescribe antibiotics that are safe for pregnancy. Staying hydrated and following your doctor’s advice is crucial for protecting both your health and your baby’s.

Can an online doctor help?

Yes, online doctors can be a valuable resource for managing bladder infections. Through telehealth, you can consult with a GP to discuss your symptoms and receive a tailored treatment plan. Online doctors can:

Diagnose infections: By reviewing your symptoms and medical history.
Prescribe antibiotics: Online prescriptions can be sent directly to your phone.
Provide referrals: If further investigations or specialist care is needed.
Offer advice: On preventive measures to reduce the risk of future infections.

Also read: Online doctors for UTI – Telehealth assessment & treatment

How can Hola Health’s online doctor help via telehealth?

Hola Health’s online doctor service is designed to make healthcare accessible and convenient. Whether you’re dealing with a bladder infection or another medical concern, our telehealth platform can assist with:

Instant consult online: Schedule telehealth appointments for prompt advice and treatment. Our doctors can diagnose and recommend treatments for various conditions, including bladder infections.
Doctor’s referrals: Need additional tests or specialist care? Our online doctors can provide the necessary referrals and guide you through the next steps.
Online scripts: Receive instant scripts directly to your phone via SMS or have medications delivered to your door through online pharmacy delivery.
Medical certificates: If you require a medical certificate online for work or school, our online doctors can issue one during your consultation.

Take control of your health without the hassle of a clinic visit. For expert GP advice on bladder infections or any other concerns, book a telehealth consultation with Hola Health today. We’re here to help you feel better, faster.

See a GP online within just 15 minutes.

Download the app today.

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Disclaimer

This content is created for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. For emergencies please immediately contact 000.

Tagged Bladder Infection online consults telehealth Urinary Tract Infection UTI