A urine test will confirm whether or not you have a bladder infection that requires treatment. If you do have cystitis, and it is a mild enough case, there is a good chance that it may resolve itself without treatment, or by simply drinking more fluids. If treatment for your bladder infection is necessary due to the risk of the infection spreading to your kidneys antibiotics are usually recommended. There are a wide variety of antibiotics available for the treatment of a bladder infection. Some commonly prescribed antibiotics would include: * Amoxicillin * Nitrofurantoin * Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole * Cephalosporins * Sulfa drugs * Doxycycline - not for children under 8 years old * Quinolones - not to be used by children In addition to these antibiotics, the drug Phenazopyridine hydrochloride (pyridium)may be used to relieve the burning associated with the infection. Ascorbic acid may be added to reduce the amount of bacteria in the urine. While cystitis is uncomfortable, it usually responds well to treatment. Most minor cases of infection should clear up in 3 days, while others may take up to a week. In either case, be sure to take all the prescribed medication as directed by your doctor. Elderly patients, or those suffering from a chronic condition, may take up to two weeks of medication before results can be seen. In some cases, those who get frequent urinary tract infections, may be advised to take low-dose antibiotics daily as a preventive measure. The same situation may apply for those who have contacted their infections as a result of sexual activity. They may be advised to take a small dose of antibiotic prior to sexual intercourse. For women, who are postmenopausal, the doctor may prescribe the hormone estrogen. This may either be in the form of a topical cream, or a pill. After completion of your antibiotic cycle you will be asked to return to your doctor for a follow-up urine test to make sure that your bladder is now free of infection. It is possible in cases where the infection is the result of a blockage, such as a kidney stone, or an enlarged prostate that surgery may be the only effective bladder infection treatment.
Carl DiNello is an Article Author and Wesbite Owner whose articles are featured on websites covering the Internets most popular topics.
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