Don't forget to empty that bladder

By Roshan Peiris

Urinary infection is a common condition, says Dr. Anura Wijewardane, Consultant Genito-Urinary surgeon. He said the disease is more prevalent in women than men.

Dr. Wijewardane said causes of urinary infection are distressing and alarming. One cause is the poor emptying of the bladder. Many do not have the habit of waiting patiently until the urinary bladder is fully emptied. The residual urine can cause renal diseases, scars and urinary stones.

The passing of urine is necessary. When bacteria reaches the urinary bladder through the urethra, whether it will cause an infection depends on the efficiency of passing urine, stressed Dr. Wijewardane. 

The frightening part is that an infection in the bladder could also affect the kidneys.

Dr. Wijewardane says patients should always take a lot of fluid , empty the bladder regularly, be conscious of good hygiene and when urinary tract infections develop, seek medical advice without delay. 

Dr. Wijewardana also observed that dietary adjustments are necessary if stone diseases are indicated. 

Lower urinary tract infection, commonly known as Cystitis, affects the urinary passage and bladder. Dr. Wijewardane said the symptoms of the infection are a burning sensation while passing urine, lower abdominal pain , frequency in passing urine and sometimes the passing of blood with urine.

Symptoms, of upper urinary tract infection or Acute Pyelonephritis, which affects the kidneys, are loin pain, fever, and nausea.

Laboratory diagnosis is a must, the doctor said. Careful urine collection is necessary for microscopy and culture. The laboratory will supply the patient with a sterilised bottle to collect the sample of urine. It is essential that a sample of urine be handed over for a culture before the treatment with antibiotics begins.

There are also further tests needed. X-rays, ultra sound scans, blood tests to assess renal functions and to spot any abnormalities associated with infection are all necessary if the symptoms persist. "Especially in women with upper tract infections and recurrent infections these tests are advised," the doctor said. Treatment consists of medication, mainly antibiotics, good hygiene, high fluid intake and regular passing of urine.

Urinary stones are a common condition in Sri Lanka, Dr. Wijewardane said. Stones occur when the concentration of certain substances in urine exceeds saturation point. 

Dr. Wijewardane will deal with kidney stones, their cause and cure next week.

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