Cystitis

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Cystitis[edit | edit source]

Illustration depicting inflammation of the urinary bladder, characteristic of cystitis.

Cystitis[edit | edit source]

Cystitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the urinary bladder. It is commonly caused by a urinary tract infection (UTI) but can also arise from other factors.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Cystitis can be caused by:

  • Bacterial Infection: Most commonly, cystitis is a result of a bacterial infection, often originating from the gastrointestinal tract.
  • Irritating Substances: Chemical irritants such as soaps, spermicides, and certain medications can lead to inflammation.
  • Interstitial Cystitis: A chronic condition also known as painful bladder syndrome, unrelated to bacterial infection.
  • Radiation Therapy: Can cause inflammation of the bladder as a side effect.
  • Foreign Bodies: Such as urinary catheters, can lead to infection and subsequent cystitis.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

Common symptoms of cystitis include:

  • A strong, persistent urge to urinate.
  • A burning sensation when urinating.
  • Frequent, small amounts of urine.
  • Blood in the urine (hematuria).
  • Cloudy or strong-smelling urine.
  • Discomfort or pressure in the lower abdomen.
  • Low-grade fever (in some cases).

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of cystitis generally involves:

  • Urinalysis to check for signs of infection and blood in the urine.
  • Urine culture to identify the bacteria causing infection.
  • In cases of recurrent cystitis, further diagnostic tests may be needed, such as cystoscopy or imaging studies.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for cystitis depends on the underlying cause:

  • Antibiotics: For bacterial infections, a course of antibiotics is the standard treatment.
  • Pain Relief: Medications to alleviate discomfort and burning sensation.
  • Interstitial Cystitis Treatment: Includes lifestyle changes, physical therapy, medications, and sometimes surgical interventions.
  • Preventive Measures: For recurrent cystitis, preventive strategies may include lifestyle changes, probiotics, and, in some cases, preventive antibiotics.

Prevention[edit | edit source]

Preventive measures include:

  • Drinking plenty of liquids, especially water.
  • Urinating frequently and after sexual activity.
  • Avoiding irritating feminine products.
  • Good personal hygiene practices.
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD