Bladder Infection Caused by Strep
The strep that causes bladder infections is group B. It is part of the streptococcus bacteria family that causes a wide variety of infections in the body. The bacterium is carried in the body by many people, but it does not usually cause serious infections. When it is detected it can successfully be treated with an antibiotic. Pregnant women who carry the group B strep are at risk of infecting their unborn children if not treated during delivery.
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Cause
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Bacteria grow on the skin and in the body without us knowing it. The group B strep can be present in the intestines, rectum, vagina, bladder and throat. Having the bacteria does not necessarily cause any symptoms or infections. Problems occur when the bacteria travels through the urinary tract. Sexual activity for women can cause the bacteria to move from the vagina to the urethra, and then into the bladder. Frequent catheterization can cause the bacteria to travel to the bladder and prostate in men. According to the CDC, 25 percent of women carry the bacteria.
Symptoms
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Bladder infections (cystitis), caused by the group B strep, do not always show symptoms in the early stages, especially in women. Symptoms that do occur include cloudy urine, pain, frequent urination, and cramping or discomfort in the lower abdomen or back. A low grade fever under 100 degrees Fahrenheit can be present, but not in every case.
Pregnant women may not show any signs of the infection, and are tested around weeks 35 to 37 of pregnancy. -
Treatment
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Antibiotics are prescribed for bladder infections. The most widely used antibiotic for group B strep is penicillin. Alternatives are available for people with allergies.
Considerations
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Women who are pregnant and carry the bacteria are treated when labor begins. If the water breaks and no labor has started within 18 hours, an antibiotic is administered. Treatment may also be started during labor if a woman previously delivered a baby who was positive for group B strep disease, or has a urinary tract infection, or develops a fever during labor. Antibiotics will be given if no prior testing was done before the onset of labor.
Precautions are taken before birth because the bacteria can cause blood infections and meningitis, (infection around the brain). It can also cause pneumonia and lead to death.
In addition to the risks for newborns, the elderly and people who have compromised immune systems can be at risk if the group B strep grows without treatment.
Prevention
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Women can reduce the risk of bladder infections by keeping the vaginal area clean, wiping from front to back, and not holding back the urge to urinate. Drinking cranberry juice can also help in the prevention of bladder infections.
Attempts are being made by researchers to develop a vaccine that can be used on adults as a protection against group B strep infections. Infants are better protected through antibiotic therapy to the mother.
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References
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