Bladder irritants are substances or factors that can cause bladder symptoms such as pain, urgency, frequency, leakage, or infection. They include foods, drinks, medications, and habits that affect the bladder or the nervous system that controls it. ⁷

To prevent or treat bladder irritation, a person can:

• Avoid or limit bladder irritants, such as caffeine, alcohol, carbonated beverages, artificial sweeteners, citrus fruits, tomatoes, spicy foods, chocolate, and vinegar. ^{1 2 3 4}
• Drink enough fluids, but not too much, to flush out bacteria and toxins and prevent dehydration. ^{4 5}
• Exercise and lose weight to improve bladder control and reduce pressure on the pelvic floor muscles. ²
• Do pelvic floor exercises to strengthen the muscles that support the bladder and urethra. ^{2 5}
• Follow a bladder training program to regain control over the bladder and reduce the urge and frequency of urination. ^{4 5}
• Take medications or consider other treatments, depending on the cause and severity of the symptoms. ^{2 5}