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  • Urinary tract infections are named according to the specific location of the urinary tract in which they take place. Therefore, a bladder infection is a urinary tract infection located solely in the bladder. As with any medical condition, nothing can replace the advice of a trained medical professional, but in being your own advocate, it is wise to learn all you can about the treatments available to you.

    Treating Bladder Infections

    Provided that your bladder infection is of a mild nature, your doctor will likely prescribe antibiotics to treat it. It is important to follow the doctor's instructions carefully, as some antibiotic courses need to be continued even after symptoms subside. If you are a frequent sufferer of bladder infection, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to be taken daily as a preventative measure, or to be taken after sexual activity, which triggers infections in some women. In addition to prescribed medication, it is important to stay well-hydrated and flush the bacteria from your system by drinking large quantities of water. Drinking cranberry juice or taking cranberry tablets may also help, but should be avoided if you have a personal or family history of kidney stones. To aid recovery, you should not smoke or chew tobacco. Additionally, avoid caffeinated beverages and those that are high in sugar. While undergoing treatment, you should also avoid wearing tight-fitting clothing. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, or those that are labeled specifically for use during a urinary tract infection may help with any pain associated with the infection, but consult your doctor before taking these while you are also taking the prescribed medication. If you do not wish to take additional medication or if your doctor advises you against it, use a heating pad to help alleviate your pain.

    Source:

    New York Times: Urinary Tract Infection--Adults

    Urology Channel: Urinary Tract Infection

    MedLine Plus: Urinary Tract Infection - Adults

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