What is Cystitis?
Cystitis is inflammation of the bladder, typically caused by a bacterial infection. It's particularly common in women and can cause significant discomfort.
Common Symptoms
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Burning sensation during urination
- Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
- Lower abdominal pain
- Blood in urine (in some cases)
- General feeling of discomfort
Causes
Primary Causes
- Bacterial infection (most common)
- Physical damage or irritation
- Certain medications
- Underlying medical conditions
Risk Factors
- Female gender
- Sexual activity
- Use of certain contraceptives
- Menopause
- Poor hygiene habits
- Catheter use
Diagnosis
- Physical examination
- Urine analysis
- Bacterial culture (in some cases)
- Ultrasound (for recurring cases)
Treatment Options
Immediate Relief
- Over-the-counter pain medication
- Increased fluid intake
- Hot water bottle for comfort
Medical Treatment
- Antibiotics (for bacterial infections)
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Prescription pain relief
Prevention
- Drink plenty of water
- Urinate regularly
- Practice good hygiene
- Wipe from front to back
- Urinate after sexual activity
- Wear cotton underwear
When to Seek Medical Help
- Symptoms lasting more than 3 days
- Severe pain or bleeding
- Fever or back pain
- Recurring infections
- Pregnancy
Complications
If left untreated, cystitis can lead to:
- Kidney infections
- Chronic bladder problems
- Recurrent infections
Long-term Management
- Regular check-ups
- Lifestyle modifications
- Preventive antibiotics (in some cases)
- Dietary adjustments