A bladder infection, also known as cystitis, is a common type of urinary tract infection (UTI) caused by bacteria multiplying in the bladder. While the infection primarily causes localized discomfort, the body’s systemic response means that dizziness can sometimes be a related symptom. A bladder infection does not directly target the balance centers, but the resulting physiological changes can easily lead to feelings of lightheadedness or unsteadiness. Understanding the cause of the dizziness is important to ensure the infection has not progressed to a more serious stage.
Indirect Causes of Dizziness Associated with UTIs
Dizziness often arises from the body’s general reaction to fighting the infection rather than the infection itself. One of the most frequent indirect causes is dehydration, which can lead to a drop in blood pressure. People with a UTI may limit their fluid intake to reduce the pain and frequency of urination, which worsens dehydration.
The body’s immune response may also trigger a mild fever. Fever increases the body’s metabolic rate and can cause generalized weakness and fatigue. When dehydration and fever occur simultaneously, they reduce blood volume and can lead to orthostatic hypotension. This condition causes a temporary drop in blood pressure when standing up, resulting in dizziness.
Signs of a Spreading Infection
Dizziness can become a concerning symptom if it suggests the infection has moved beyond the bladder. When bacteria travel up the ureters to the kidneys, it causes a kidney infection, or pyelonephritis, which is a serious condition. Symptoms of a spreading infection include a high fever, often above 101°F (38.3°C), and chills or uncontrollable shivering.
Dizziness is frequently accompanied by intense pain in the flank, the back or side area just below the ribs. Nausea and vomiting are also common with pyelonephritis, which can further exacerbate dehydration and lightheadedness. In rare but severe cases, the infection can enter the bloodstream, leading to urosepsis, a life-threatening form of blood poisoning. Sepsis may cause confusion, a rapid heart rate, and very low blood pressure, where dizziness is a prominent symptom.
Common Symptoms of a Bladder Infection
For a person to attribute their dizziness to a bladder infection, they will typically experience the classic, localized urinary symptoms. The most common symptom is dysuria, a burning or painful sensation during urination. This occurs because of inflammation in the lining of the bladder and urethra.
A bladder infection also causes a frequent and intense urge to urinate, even immediately after the bladder has been emptied. Often, only a small amount of urine is passed despite the strong feeling of urgency. Other localized signs include cloudy or foul-smelling urine, sometimes with visible blood, and a feeling of pressure or cramping in the lower abdomen or pelvic area.
When to Consult a Healthcare Provider
Seeking medical attention is necessary for any suspected bladder infection to confirm the diagnosis and receive appropriate treatment. Prompt treatment with antibiotics prevents the infection from progressing up the urinary tract to the kidneys.
The presence of dizziness requires an immediate medical evaluation, particularly if it is a new symptom or is accompanied by other systemic signs. High fever, chills, vomiting, or pain in the back or side indicate the infection has likely spread to the kidneys. Older adults should be evaluated quickly, as a change in mental state, such as sudden confusion or severe lethargy, may be the only sign of a serious infection.