A bruised bladder is usually due to a direct stroke to the lower abdominal region. The injury can occur after a fall, vehicular accident or being struck by any blunt object.
The bladder is described as a muscular sac positioned in the pelvis, right above and behind the pubic bone. If it is empty, the bladder strikingly resembles the shape and size of a pear. The organ is responsible for storing urine from the kidneys and regulates the frequency of urination. The bladder is layered by muscular tissues that stretch out to hold urine. If an individual sustained an injury to the bladder, it can trigger several symptoms. Even though a bruised bladder is caused by external forces, it can damage the interior structures.
What are the indications of a bruised bladder?
If an individual is suspected with a bruised bladder, the usual symptoms that might manifest include the following:
- Abrupt pain on impact
- Lower abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Abdominal tenderness
- Blood-streaked urine
- Blood from the urethra
Management
An individual with a bruised bladder should seek medical attention right away. The doctor will assess the individual and require tests such as CT scan or ultrasound to determine the extent of damage or check for internal bleeding or leakage from the bladder.
An X-ray is also requested to exclude fractures to the pelvis. When it comes to the bruising that is not accompanied by other injuries, it eventually settles on its own within a week or more. Hospitalization might be required to carefully monitor the symptoms until the doctor is certain that there is no internal bleeding or bladder rupture.
Quick Note / Disclaimer
The material posted on this page on a bruised bladder is for learning and educational purposes only. To learn to recognize and manage bladder injuries, register for a first aid and CPR course with Saskatoon First Aid.