Understanding Bladder Infections (Cystitis): Types & Symptoms

Bladder infections are also referred to as cystitis and don't always have symptoms, according to the Mayo Clinic. There are several different types of bladder infections, each with its own set of symptoms.

Types

• Bacterial cystitis is the most common form of bladder infection. Interstitial cystitis and hemorrhagic cystitis are the two other types of bladder infections, but are relatively rare, according to honeymooncystitis.com.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of bladder infections include pelvic pressure, lower abdomen discomfort and frequent, painful urination and a low-grade fever.

Function

• Bladder infections are usually caused by the E. coli bacteria, which usually lives in the intestinal tract but may pass from the anus to the vagina.

Prevention

• Drinking plenty of water as well as cranberry juice--which may have infection fighting properties, according to the Mayo Clinic--and maintaining good personal hygiene are the best preventative measures against bladder infections.

Solution

• Bladder infections are usually treated by the administration of one or more antibiotic pharmaceutical medications.