HEALTHNET

My wife has had three bladder infections in past 6 months. How to avoid further attacks?

Q. My wife has had three bladder infections in past 6 months. How to avoid further attacks?

A. The urinary bladder is a collecting bag for the urinary system. The constant flow of urine is keeping the system free from germs. However, since the opening of the bladder is near to the anus, there is a constant risk of germs normally residing in the large bowel to find a way to invade into the system. When that happens, the surface of the bladder would become red and swollen. The patient would experience a burning sensation and pain when passing urine, and has frequent urges to void. Some patients may have fever and lower abdominal pain and the urine may be found to be stained with blood.

Germs can be introduced into the bladder after sex. To prevent bladder infections, she should drink plenty of fluids and empty her bladder completely before falling asleep. She should avoid using perfumed or deodorant products in the genital area, as these may contain irritant chemicals, although she should maintain reasonable hygiene by cleaning the genital area twice daily. Learn to wipe the genital region from front to back. She should avoid tight underwear and choose cotton clothing instead.

Each attack of bladder infections must be treated adequately with antibiotics as prescribed by her doctors, and remember to follow the doctor's order to complete the course of treatment even though all symptoms have subsided. Studies have found that daily drinking of cranberry juice can prevent bladder infections. Scientists believe that cranberry juice contains a chemical that can keep bacteria from adhering to the walls of the bladder.

Source: Quality HealthCare