Bladder irritation can be a painful condition that can lead to abdominal pain, frequent urination and pain and burning during urination. While the exact cause of bladder irritation will determine your treatment, diet modification can help reduce symptoms of bladder irritation. If you suspect bladder irritation, consult your doctor for a diagnosis.
Causes of Bladder Irritation
There are two main causes of bladder irritation: urinary tract infections and interstitial cystitis. Both of these conditions are more common in females than in males. Urinary tract infections are bacterial infections that can occur in any portion of your urinary system including the kidneys, bladder, urethra and ureters. However, MayoClinic.com indicates that most urinary tract infections occur in the bladder or urethra. Interstitial cystitis is a painful condition that causes inflammation of your bladder walls. The exact cause of this condition is unknown. Symptoms of urinary tract infections and interstitial cystitis can include the frequent need to urinate, painful urination, abdominal pain and pain during intercourse. Interstitial cystitis is often mistaken for a urinary tract infection. Treatment for a urinary tract infection is an antibiotic. There is no known cure for interstitial cystitis. Medication and diet modification can help control symptoms.
Fluid Intake
Fluid intake is very important -- especially if you are diagnosed with a urinary tract infection. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends the consumption of 6 to 8 glasses of water -- or cranberry juice per day. Staying hydrated can help flush out bacteria from your urinary system. Adequate hydration can also help dilute your urine. This can help cut down on any pain that may occur while voiding. You should avoid drinks that contain caffeine, such as coffee and soda, if you experience bladder irritation.
Foods to Avoid
You should avoid stimulants -- especially all products that contain caffeine -- while you are experiencing bladder irritation. Stimulants can irritate the lining of the bladder and make it more difficult for your body to flush bacteria away. Caffeine can also increase the intensity of your symptoms and increase the urge for urination. Foods that are highly acidic can also be harmful to the bladder. According to the Cleveland Clinic, you should avoid all alcoholic beverages, pineapples, apples, grapes, lemon juice, cheese, onions, artificial sweeteners, tea, tomatoes, vinegar, chocolate, citrus fruits, champagne, carbonated beverages, raisins, prunes, beans, bananas, peaches, soy sauce, yogurt, spicy foods and rye breads.
Foods to Consume
The National Institutes of Health indicate that the types of foods you eat largely depend on trial and error. What works for one person may not work for another person. Try different foods and beverages until you find a diet that helps to reduce your symptoms. The Cleveland Clinic recommends processed cheeses, spring water, pears, peanuts, wines, white chocolate, small apples, sun tea, reduced acidic foods, blueberries and almonds.
