A bladder infection also referred to as Cystitis is a common phenomenon among men and women during the reproductive years. One of the most effective ways of diagnosing the bladder infection is through a simple urine test. Bladder infection is usually diagnosed based on the typical symptoms and maybe determined from the results of the urine test. A urine specimen specifically a midstream sample also known as a clean catch sample is acquired from the individual. However, care must be taken that the urine is not tainted from the bacteria around the tip of the penis or the vagina. In the test process, a strip of paper is immersed briefly in the urine sample for performing a couple of quick tests. The strip of paper checks for the presence of specific substances, which should not be found in the urine. More specifically it determines if the urine contains nitrites released by the bacteria. It also checks if the urine contains leukocyte esterase (several complex proteins found in specific white blood cells). The presence of leukocyte esterase is an indication that the body is attempting to remove the bacteria present in the urine.
Additionally, the urine sample is also tested under the microscope for the presence of red or white blood cells and other substances that could point out to the presence of a bladder infection. The amount of bacteria is numbered, and the bacteria in the urine specimen are grown in a special preparation to distinguish the numbers and category of bacteria. If the individual is experiencing a bladder infection, it is seen that the bacteria is present in prominent numbers.
However, going forward from the test, your doctor might want to investigate further especially if you are experiencing recurrent infections or if you suspect that you are suffering from an anatomical flaw. At such times, the medical professional may want you to go through a procedure known as cystoscopy, which involves the insertion of a thin tube through the urethra that would help the doctor to thoroughly examine the bladder.
To ensure that your kidneys are functioning normally, the doctor might also want you to go through an intravenous pyelogram (IVP), which is a special form of x-ray to look into the kidneys and ureters in a detailed manner. You might also have to undergo an ultrasound examination of all the organs and tubes involved in the production and excretion of urine.