Bladder infection is a common malady, which can occur in any seasons of the year but it is more frequent in winter.

Western medicine holds that bladder infections are caused by Escherichia coli or Chlamydia. Both men and women can have bladder infections. Women are much more vulnerable to it than men because of the closeness of the anus, vagina, and urethra in the anatomy, and also because of the short length of the female urethra. In women, the bacteria from fecal contamination or from vaginal secretions can enter to the bladder by moving up through the urethra. In men, the bacteria can reach the bladder either by ascending through the urethra or by migrating from an infected prostate gland.

Traditional Chinese medicine teaches that, besides the above factors, the bladder infection is connected with the kidneys’ Yin deficiency, which comes from systemic disorders such as diabetes, pregnancy, men/women’s menopause or post menopause, using of a diaphragm, excessive sexual activities, over work, or over exercise. It is also related to the dampness/wetness and heat of the upper and middle Jiao traveling down to the bladder, which results from physical or emotional stress combined with eating rich fatty foods.

The main symptom of a bladder infection is urgent, frequent urination with a burning sensation, or lower abdominal pain. Even after the bladder has been emptied, there may be a desire to urinate again. The urine often has a strong or bad odor, and a dark yellow color, and may appear cloudy or have blood. If it is not treated, it can lead to cystitis or a kidney infection.

Traditional Chinese medicine uses acupuncture to strengthen and balance the kidney Yin and Yang; clear away the dampness/wetness and heat of upper middle Jiao. The main acupoints are selected from the meridians of the kidneys, spleen, and liver. To ease symptoms, drink cranberry juice in winter, or eat water melon in summer, put a heating pad on lower abdominal area every day, rest more, add broth vegetables and soup to meals. For prevention, wash underwear separately, use a condom when having sex, wipe anus from the front to back after bowel movements, be happy and optimistic, balance work and rest, and do Yin and Yang exercise.

Contact Li Hua L.Ac. TCMD at Atlanta Acupuncture Center or 404-250-9903 or e-mail lihua@aac2000.com or surf her web site at www.aac2000.com