The causes of bladder infections and other urinary tract infections, or UTIs, include bacteria, mycobacteria, parasites, viruses and fungi, notes the Merck Manual. Enteric bacteria, such as the Escherichia coli bacterium, cause most cases of bladder infection, or cystitis. Treatment with antibiotics usually clears up those infections quickly, but if untreated, bladder infections can lead to complications, some potentially life-threatening.
Kidney Infection
The infectious agents that cause bladder infections may spread from the bladder to the kidneys, causing complications such as acute or chronic pyelonephritis, or kidney infection. Those infections could lead to permanent damage to the kidneys. Symptoms of kidney infection include a frequent urge to urinate, burning sensations or pain during urination, and pain in the groin, side or back, notes the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse. A doctor can diagnose kidney infections with a urine test, and treatment involves a course of antibiotics taken over several weeks.
Kidney Failure
Acute kidney failure is a rare but life-threatening complication from a bladder infection. In acute kidney failure, the kidneys suddenly stop functioning properly, and lose their ability to filter wastes from the bloodstream. Symptoms include blood in the stools, a loss of appetite, and generalized swelling due to retention of fluid, notes MedlinePlus. Doctors usually diagnose this condition with an abdominal ultrasound. Treatment involves measures to halt accumulation of waste and fluid while attempting to restore the functioning of the kidneys. If potassium levels rise too high, doctors may put a patient on dialysis. Dialysis may also be indicated if the patient stops urinating, or if he experiences changes in mental state.
Problems at Birth
Possible complications from a urinary tract infection are that a woman may deliver her baby prematurely. If she goes to full term, the baby may be smaller and weigh less than most babies.
Recurrent UTIs
After treatment of the initial bladder infection with antibiotics, some people may experience recurring infections as complications. Sometimes the infections will be chronic, or long-lasting. In those cases, doctors may vary the treatment plan and prescribe antibiotics for longer periods of time.
Sepsis
One of the most dangerous possible complications from a UTI is sepsis, notes the A.D.A.M. Medical Encyclopedia. Sepsis is a potentially fatal infection blood infection which provokes a massive reaction by the body’s immune system. Younger people, the elderly and those with compromised immune systems are at higher risk for sepsis. The National Institute of General Medical Sciences notes that the body’s immune response can cause general inflammation, resulting in leaking blood vessels and blood clots. The ensuing reduction in normal blood flow can damage organs and cause organ failure and eventually, septic shock and death.
