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Can men also contract Bladder Infection

Men can also get infected by bladder infections. Also, generally known as Urinary Tract Infection (UTI). Bladder infections are less common in men than in women because men have a longer urethra. A urethra is a tube from which urine passes from the bladder to the penis. Urethra makes it difficult for the bacteria to reach the bladder and cause infection.

In men, the most common cause of bladder infection is enlarged prostate, benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH. These problems occur when the prostate gland grows and hinders the flow of urine from the bladder. The flow of urine helps prevent infection by washing out infections.

When the bladder doesn't empty completely, it becomes vulnerable to bacteria growth and infection. Infections of the urinary system the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra can be very serious and even life threatening. Chlamydia and Mycoplasma are the two kinds of bacteria responsible for causing urinary tract infection and bladder infections.

Reason why one can contract Bladder infection

Urine is normally sterile but under certain circumstances, E-coli bacteria that live in the colon move into the urethra causing an infection called urethritis. The infection may move up the system to the bladder, called cystitis, or to the kidneys, pyelonephritis.
It has been found that women whose male partners use condoms with spermicidal foam tend to have the E-coli bacteria in the vagina.

Other causes of bladder infection in men are:

• Kidney stones
• Urethral stricture
• Anal intercourse
• Sexually transmitted bacteria
• Enlarged prostate
• Diabetes or any other disease which lowers the immune system can cause bladder infection

Symptoms of bladder infection in men

• Frequent urination
• Strong, persistent urge to urinate
• Burning sensation when urinating (dysuria)
• Low-grade fever which often means the infection has spread to the kidneys
• Cloudy urine with a strong odor
• Blood in urine (hematuria)
• Back pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Pain and burning sensation in the area of bladder and urethra during urination
  

Bladder Infection Diagnosis

The doctor will take a sample of urine and send it to test for the type of bacteria present. The lab will check which kind of bacteria is causing the infection. Chlamydia and Mycoplasma has to be sampled separately with a special bacterial culture.

Further tests such as an IVP (Intravenious pyelogram), ultrasound, or cystoscopy may be required to detect the cause of urinary infections.

The doctor may conduct a physical exam to look for enlarged kidney or prostate gland.

Treatment for Bladder Infection

Usually bladder infections in men can be treated at home. However, in some cases you may need to go into the hospital for further treatment. You may need to take one or more of the following medicines:

Antibiotics

You may need to take antibiotics to treat your bladder infection. Antibiotics kill bacteria. Always take your antibiotics as directed by your doctor, even if you feel better. Your sexual partner may also need to be treated with this medicine.

Over-the-counter pain medicine

You may use over-the-counter (OTC) pain medicines, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, for pain or swelling. These medicines are safe for most people to use. However, they can cause serious problems when they are not used correctly.

People with certain medical conditions like heart problem or liver disease may not be able to take OTC medicines. Using too much or using these medicines for longer than the label says can also cause problems. Follow directions on the label carefully. If you have questions, talk to your caregiver.

Increase in water intake

While treating a urinary tract infection, drink at least six to eight (8-ounce) cups of healthy liquids each day. Water is the best choice as drinking liquids will help in flushing out germs from the kidneys.
Bladder infection in men can occur due to different reasons. They are rare in men due to large urethra tube which prevents the bacteria from settling in the bladder. However, men can also get affected by bladder infections. In such cases, proper treatment is necessary.