Have you ever felt a stinging sensation after you pee? Or a horrible cramp while you are urinating? These could be because of bladder area discomfort. Many of you must have thought of it as an infection or a temporary spasm. Which, in some cases, might be true. But in some cases, it’s urinary bladder discomfort. It can affect both men and women.
This article will list the top causes of urinary bladder discomfort. You will see what effect it has on men and women. We will also discuss how to relieve bladder discomfort in detail.
Discomfort or Bladder Pain in Men
Common reasons for bladder pain in men is associated with bladder inflammation, bladder stones, weakening of pelvic floor muscles, and urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Men also experience urinary bladder discomfort due to prostate problems. An enlarged prostate, abnormal growth on/near the prostate, prostate surgery, prostate cancer, etc., can all lead to uncomfortable feelings in the bladder.
Because of this, men might need to urinate more frequently, cannot empty their bladders completely, experience pain while urinating, etc.
Discomfort or Bladder Pain in Women
Bladder pain in women is caused by all the reasons above, except for prostate issues. Women have a different reproductive system, which doesn't include a prostate. Although, inflammation of the vagina can make your bladder irritated too.
Other gynaecological issues leading to urinary bladder discomfort include endometriosis, ovarian cysts, or Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). Speaking of the pelvic floor, it is weaker in women who have had childbirth. Such women are at more risk of bladder issues.
Reasons for Urinary Bladder Discomfort
Here are the top 4 causes for uncomfortable feeling in the bladder.
1. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
UTIs are one of the common causes of bladder discomfort. They occur when bacteria enter your urinary tract. These are more common in women than men. Symptoms of UTIs include:
- Burning during urination
- Frequent urination
- Cloudy or bloody urine
- Pelvic discomfort
- Urgent need to urinate
- Difficulty starting urination
- Incomplete emptying of the bladder
2. Bladder Inflammation
Bladder inflammation can result from infections, but sometimes, the causes could be irritants or other underlying conditions.
- In men, prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate gland, which helps control urination by relaxing or tightening the muscles around the urethra) can cause bladder irritation.
- In women, vaginitis (inflammation of the vagina) can cause the same effect.
- Underlying conditions such as interstitial cystitis could also cause urinary bladder irritation.
3. Bladder Stones
Bladder stones are small stone-like structures formed inside the bladder. They are formed due to dehydration and concentrated urine. These stones can irritate the bladder due to their rough surface, weight, and constant contact with the bladder muscles. They can also cause:
- Pelvic pain
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Painful urination
- Blood in the urine
- Difficulty urinating
4. Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
In pelvic floor dysfunction, the pelvic muscles holding your bladder in place are weakened. Hence, the bladder doesn't get the support that it should. So, it gets irritated and leads to urinary incontinence. These muscles get damaged due to old age, obesity, childbirth, or neurological disorders.
How to Relieve Bladder Area Discomfort?
Based on the cause of your bladder area discomfort, your doctor will suggest the most effective treatment and management strategies. While you are undergoing treatment, you can use Friends Adult Insert Pads to line your underwear. It will absorb excess urine, if any, and keep your clothes clean. This is perfect for people who don't prefer adult diapers.
Here are some of the best relief strategies for bladder discomfort:
-
Hydration
Drink plenty of water throughout the day. It helps dilute urine and flush out irritants. But make sure you don't consume too much liquid, or you'll need to pee frequently.
-
Dietary Changes
At least limit, if not avoid consuming items that can irritate your bladder. Items to avoid include:
- Caffeine
- Alcohol
- Spicy and citrusy foods
Instead, eat foods that are easy to digest and not intoxicating.
-
Pelvic Floor Exercises
Weak pelvic floor muscles are a major cause of bladder irritation. Strengthening them is important to regain control over your bladder. So, practice Kegel exercises every day at least for 20 minutes. This will improve bladder control and gradually decrease urination urgency.
-
Prescription medications
Based on the cause of your bladder discomfort, doctors may suggest medications to eliminate the cause and offer relief. This could include anticholinergics and tricyclic antidepressants. Don't take these medications without a proper diagnosis. Also, they cannot be bought over the counter.
Urinary bladder discomfort can significantly impact your quality of life. However, understanding the underlying reasons for this uncomfortable feeling in the bladder is crucial for effective management. Whether you're a man or a woman, you can work with your doctor to recognise the symptoms and determine the most appropriate treatment strategy. You can improve your overall well-being and enjoy a better quality of life by addressing bladder discomfort proactively.
FAQs
Why do I feel discomfort around my bladder?
That uncomfortable feeling in the bladder could be caused by irritants such as infections, stones, or pressure from other organs of the body.
What are the signs of an irritated bladder?
The 5 major signs of an irritated bladder are:
- Pain or burning during urination
- Frequent urination
- Urgency of urinating
- Blood in the urine
- Trouble emptying bladder
What can I take for bladder discomfort?
You can take over-the-counter medications, prescription medications, or bladder relaxants for your urinary bladder discomfort. Make sure to visit your doctor first.
Can you have bladder discomfort without an infection?
Yes, you can have bladder area discomfort without an infection. It could be because of pregnancy (in women), weakened pelvic floor muscles, bladder stones, etc.
