Bladder inflammation (cystitis) is usually a mild, common infection treatable with antibiotics, but it can become serious if untreated, potentially spreading to the kidneys (causing fever, back pain) or, rarely, leading to life-threatening sepsis. Chronic forms like Interstitial Cystitis (IC/BPS) are less about infection and more about persistent pain, significantly impacting quality of life, sleep, and social activities. So, while often minor, it warrants medical attention, especially with severe or recurring symptoms, to prevent severe complications.
Most of the time, cystitis happens when there's an infection caused by bacteria. This is called a urinary tract infection (UTI). Having a bladder infection can be painful and annoying. It can become a serious health problem if the infection spreads to your kidneys.
Pregnancy increases your risk of developing urinary tract infections. During pregnancy — especially weeks six to 24 — your urinary tract changes as your uterus grows. The increased weight and pressure of your uterus on your bladder can block urine from flowing, making it an ideal environment for bacteria.
Children older than age 2 months usually take an antibiotic by mouth as a liquid or tablet. Children younger than age 2 months or children who are vomiting may go to a hospital for intravenous (IV) antibiotics. Your child may take antibiotics to treat a bladder infection.
If you're experiencing an upper urinary tract infection, the symptoms are more flu-like and may include: fever, chills, nausea and vomiting. A UTI is caused by bacteria from your skin or rectum that get into your urinary tract.
What are the symptoms of a bladder infection?
Certain STIs, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, can mimic UTI symptoms. Burning during urination and pelvic pain are common to both conditions. However, STIs often include additional symptoms like unusual vaginal or penile discharge, itching, or sores.
Cranberries. Cranberries have natural compounds that stop bacteria from attaching to the lining of the urinary tract, which helps lower the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). Choose unsweetened cranberry products for the best results.
Understanding urinary tract infections
However, if the infection is left unchecked, it can spread up the ureters to your kidneys, leading to a kidney infection. On average, it can take between a few days to a week for a UTI to turn into a kidney infection if left untreated.
Although women, particularly those aged 16–64 years, are significantly more likely to experience UTIs than men [4], urinary infections frequently occur in both genders and across all age groups [3, 4]; specific populations such as pregnant women, the elderly or patients with spinal cord injuries, catheters, or diabetes ...
Five key warning signs during pregnancy needing immediate medical attention include vaginal bleeding, severe headaches with vision changes, decreased baby movement, severe abdominal pain/cramping, and signs of preterm labor like regular contractions or fluid leakage, as these can signal serious issues like miscarriage, preeclampsia, placental problems, or infection. Always contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency care for these symptoms.
Untreated or inadequately treated UTIs in pregnancy can lead to serious complications such as pyelonephritis, preterm birth, low birth weight, and maternal sepsis, which can significantly impact maternal and fetal health.
A UTI becomes an emergency when it causes serious symptoms like high fever, confusion, vomiting, or severe back or side pain. These may be signs the infection has spread to the kidneys or bloodstream. Call 911 or go to the ER if you can't stand, think clearly, or breathe easily.
Interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome is a common, chronic condition that causes inflammation and discomfort in your bladder area. It also affects your peeing habits — you may pee more often during the day, and when you have to go, it's urgent.
Interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS), formerly called interstitial cystitis, is a chronic (>6 weeks duration) pelvic condition that affects or appears to affect the urinary bladder with symptoms of discomfort, pressure, or pain.
Cystitis is an inflammation of the bladder and is usually caused by the bacterium E. coli. Treatment includes drinking plenty of water and taking urinary alkalisers and antibiotics. Regular and severe attacks need to be investigated and treated by your GP.
Signs your UTI is getting worse
A silent UTI is a UTI that does not cause any noticeable symptoms. This means a person can have a UTI without realizing it, leading to severe complications if left untreated. Silent UTIs are more common in older adults and people with weakened immune systems, but they can affect anyone.
A kidney infection is more likely than a lower UTI to suddenly make you feel sick, give you a fever or cause pain in your lower back or side.
Eating yogurt and other cultured dairy products (fermented with “good” bacteria) regularly may decrease the risk for urinary tract infections by up to 80%.
Foods that have been known to amplify overactive bladder symptoms include:
Here are 10 bladder symptoms that you should discuss with your healthcare team:
Chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and trichomoniasis may all cause burning when urinating and increased frequency. Unlike UTIs, STIs might also cause unusual discharge, itching, or pain during sexual activity. Because the symptoms overlap, it's easy to confuse one for the other.
Foods to Avoid With Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
People usually begin feeling symptoms of interstitial cystitis in their forties. Symptoms can vary from individual to individual. This is a chronic condition, and your pain and symptoms can increase in severity over time.