Just below the navel on your body is the area where the bladder lies internally. Tenderness in this area can often signal that a bladder infection may be in progress.
The bladder, of course, is the storage space for urine that is derived from both kidneys. When the bladder is full, it receives nerve impulses that give you a feeling of urgency, leading to evacuation.
The bladder in females can easily become infected due to its outlet being in close proximity to the rectum. It is important when wiping the rectum after a bowel movement that the stroke should be up, rather than down, preventing infection of the outlet to the bladder. Bladder infections can result by flushing the toilet while still sitting after a bowel movement and being splashed by the water. Males do not experience bladder infections as frequently due to the length of the urethra.
Infections of the bladder cause symptoms such as the urge to urinate frequently, a burning sensation during urination and, often, the appearance of blood in the urine. Blood in the urine should be investigated to rule out tumors that may occur in the bladder or kidney. Infections of the bladder can be prevented by taking adequate amounts of water during the day (six to eight glasses). Cranberry juice also can maintain a healthy, functioning bladder. Not to waste all of this information, I present it to you in verse:
“What’s the matter bladder?”
What’s the matter bladder?
It seems that things aren’t right.
You’re not letting me get my rest
I’m urinating both day and night.
I know that you’re getting older
And your last nerve is on the line
But you just have to get hold of yourself
When I try to go out and dine.
You’re making me get up three times at night
And often in a darkened room
I’ve stubbed my toe on the edge of the bed
And holding back, the flow was doomed
How can I make peace with you?
You know I love coffee and wine
I’m aware that caffeine and alcohol irritate you
But you’re gonna have to give me some time
I know how to calm you down
With a new drug that’s right on hand
But I can also help by doing other things
I’m sure that you understand
You may be getting infected
By a host of other things
I no longer flush while sitting
Because I know what that can bring
I drink at least six glasses of water daily
With concentrated cranberry juice in between
I’m only trying to help you
To resist infections that can be mean
I’m aware that the muscles on my pelvic floor
Have become weak with aging and time
I’ve been doing those pelvic exercises
I’m sure they will strengthen and be more kind
I’ve even gotten my prostate gland checked
To see if it was squeezing too tight
But the size was normal and the PSA was down
The doc said everything was alright
I hope that we can come together
And respect each other’s needs
Because you certainly know that you need me
And I’m sure I need you indeed
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