Your bladder is the organ that stores urine. The muscles in the bladder relax to hold the urine produced by your body and contract to release the urine when you urinate. If you're experiencing bladder pain, you may feel a sensation of fullness, frequent urges to urinate or pain in the lower back. Dehydration, interstitial cystitis, a urinary tract infection and inflammation of the bladder are all common causes of bladder pain. With immediate treatment, pain symptoms will dissipate fairly quickly and eliminate the risk of more permanent damage.
Step 1
Increase your water intake. Water is important for flushing out the bladder and the kidneys. Although it may feel counterintuitive (especially if you are urinating frequently), the increase in fluids will help to flush out any toxins that may be causing the pain.
Step 2
Follow bladder training. Prolonged urination can cause inflammation of the bladder. Train yourself to urinate on a schedule versus waiting until you have the urge to urinate.
Step 3
Avoid food and beverages that are highly concentrated with acid such as tomatoes, citrus, coffee, chocolate and alcohol. High concentrations of acid present in the urine can be disruptive to the bladder.
Step 4
Take an over-the-counter NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) to relieve any mild pain you are experiencing. Severe cramping or pain should be reported to your doctor immediately.
Step 5
Do pelvic exercises to strengthen the bladder walls. Squeeze and release the muscles you use when urinating. Repeat five to 10 times, multiple times per day.
Step 6
Take a prescription antibiotic for severe pain or a confirmed bladder infection. Antibiotics will help to get rid of any bacteria that is causing the infection or pain.
Tips and Warnings
- Keep your doctor informed of your condition. If you develop a fever or if you notice blood in your urine, notify your doctor immediately.
