Study Links Nerve Overgrowth in Bladder to Persistent UTI Symptoms

New research suggests that treatments targeting nerve outgrowth could offer relief from pain and frequent urination after UTIs, even without an active infection.

A new study suggests that overgrowth of nerves in the bladder following recurrent UTIs may cause persistent pain and frequent urination in some women, even in the absence of an active infection.
Researchers found that immune cells called mast cells release chemicals that drive nerve overgrowth, making the bladder more sensitive to pain and the sensation of being full.
The study, which included tissue samples from human patients and detailed analyses in mice, indicates that treatments targeting nerve outgrowth could offer relief from UTI symptoms.
Experts highlight the need for more research on the mechanisms behind recurrent UTIs and call for better diagnostic tests to accurately identify infections.
The findings could lead to new, antibiotic-free treatments for UTI-related pain, addressing concerns about antibiotic resistance and the overuse of antibiotics.