Certain beverages, such as soda and tea, can encourage bladder infections. Caffeine, which is often found in soft drinks, can cause bladder spasms and bladder irritation. Bladder irritation can contribute to bladder infections. If you develop a bladder infection, the pain can radiate throughout your lower abdomen down into your pelvis.
Causes
A bacterium is the actual cause of bladder infections. Bacteria can enter your urethra and cause a urinary tract infection. If left untreated, the bacteria can travel up your urethra into your bladder. Eating and drinking certain foods and beverages can cause irritation, which worsens the inflammation and allows bacteria to spread further. Women tend to get bladder infections more often than men since a woman's urinary tract is shorter than a man's so bacteria do not have to travel as far.
Bladder Irritants
Bladder irritants can make you more susceptible to developing an infection and they can also worsen an existing bladder infection. When the urethra, urinary tract or bladder become inflamed and irritated, it is easier for bacteria to invade your urinary system. Tea, with and without the caffeine, can irritate your bladder, according to MayoClinic.com. Carbonated drinks, including soft drinks, can also irritate your bladder. Drinking too much fluid in a short period of time can make you urinate more often, which can put stress on your bladder and create a strong sense of urgency. Caffeinated drinks, such as soda, can have a similar effect on your bladder because it's a diuretic. A diuretic helps your body eliminate fluids by urinating more frequently.
Dehydration
Since soda and other caffeinated drinks can cause you to urinate more frequently, you increase the risk of becoming dehydrated. Dehydration occurs when your body loses too much fluid in a short period of time. Overstimulation, or repeated use, of your bladder can cause spasms to occur, which can cause a great deal of pain. Diuretics can cause this stimulation each time you urinate, which can lead to bladder infections.
Considerations
While you may feel like you have to have your soda or tea, it's better just to drink water. Just as important is how fast you drink your water. Drink slowly throughout the day so your body gets a chance to absorb the water you're consuming and your bladder does not become waterlogged.
