A urinary tract infection may be extremely painful and uncomfortable. Cystitis, or a bladder infection, is the most common type of UTI, according to MedlinePlus, a service of the National Institutes of Health. A UTI may also occur in the urethra, near the ureters or in the kidneys. Besides bladder pain, pain may also occur in the abdominal area or during urination. Other symptoms of a bladder infection include cloudy, foul smelling urine and a low grade fever. Bladder pain may be relieved by administering different medications and implementing different treatment methods.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics decrease the bacteria in the bladder and reduce bladder pain in as little as 24 hours, states MedlinePlus. A simple bladder infection without complications is often prescribed a three-day dose of antibiotics for women and a seven- to 14-day dose for men, according to MedlinePlus. When complications such as pregnancy or diabetes occur, a lengthier antibiotic treatment is required. Even though symptoms are no longer identifiable, it is important for patients to take the entire course of antibiotic medications. If the full course of antibiotics is not taken, the bladder infection may return and require stronger doses of antibiotics.
Phenazopyridine Hydrochloride
A common urinary tract analgesic is phenazopyridine hydrochloride, reports Drugs.com. The medication numbs the urinary tract and decreases pain. The drug temporarily turns urine red or orange, according to MayoClinic.com. Flushing the toilet immediately after urinating is essential to avoid stains from forming. Patients should avoid wearing contact lenses when taking the drug. Though the drug may eliminate the bladder pain and other symptoms associated with a UTI, patients should still seek antibiotic treatment, as phenazopyridine hydrochloride does not fight the actual bacterial infection.
Additional Treatments
Besides medications, heat therapy applied to the abdominal region will decrease bladder pain. Patients may use an electric blanket or warm a moist towel in the microwave and place it over the stomach. Patients may choose to soak in a hot bath to decrease discomfort. Hydration is critical during a bladder infection. Patients are encouraged to drink water throughout the day to flush out bacteria from the bladder. Patients should avoid caffeinated beverages; the beverages irritate the bladder and cause dehydration.
