Hemorrhagic cystitis is not something you hear about every day, but it can happen for different reasons.
The tricky part is, if you don't do anything about it, it can cause some pretty severe health problems.
That's why it is crucial to know what signs to watch for and what to do if you think you have it.
Hemorrhagic cystitis is when the inside of your bladder gets irritated and puffy, making it bleed.
How bad it feels can be different for different people, from just a little discomfort to a lot of pain.
This condition can affect anyone, but some groups are more likely to get it:
If you think you have it, see a doctor to prevent more problems. Signs of this condition include:
You might also feel feverish, shaky, and unwell if it's linked to a urinary tract infection (UTI).
Many things can make you more likely to get hemorrhagic cystitis, like infections, surgeries, medicine, and bad stuff in the environment.
Now, let's dig into the main reasons why it happens.
Hemorrhagic cystitis, a condition where you have bleeding in your bladder, can happen mainly because of infections caused by bacteria or viruses.
Bacterial infections occur when germs get into your urinary tract and bother the lining of your bladder.
This can happen if you don't clean properly after using the bathroom, which allows these germs to move into your urinary tract.
Viral infections like certain adenovirus strains or the BK polyomavirus can also lead to hemorrhagic cystitis.
These viruses directly attack the cells in your bladder lining, causing damage, swelling, and bleeding.
People with weakened immune systems, like those with HIV/AIDS, are more at risk of getting hemorrhagic cystitis from viral infections.
Certain chemotherapy drugs like cyclophosphamide and ifosfamide can lead to the development of hemorrhagic cystitis.
These drugs are used to fight cancer, but when they break down in the body, they create a harmful substance called acrolein.
This substance can irritate and harm the bladder's lining, making it more vulnerable to infections and bleeding.
Radiation therapy, which is another cancer treatment, can also damage the bladder and cause hemorrhagic cystitis.
This is more likely to happen when the radiation is aimed directly at the pelvic area, which is used for treating cancers like cervical, prostate, or bladder cancer that need intense targeting.
Radiation-induced hemorrhagic cystitis can occur either during treatment or as a delayed problem months or even years later.
People who have a bone marrow transplant are more likely to get hemorrhagic cystitis.
This happens because they usually undergo intense chemotherapy and radiation treatments before the transplant.
These treatments can hurt the bladder's lining, resulting in swelling and bleeding.
The medicines used to suppress the immune system in these patients can also increase their susceptibility to infections, which can result in hemorrhagic cystitis.
Some jobs require frequent exposure to harmful chemicals and toxins, which can increase the chances of developing conditions like hemorrhagic cystitis.
Workers in chemical manufacturing and rubber industries often deal with substances like aniline dyes, which can be harmful if inhaled or absorbed through the skin.
People in the following occupations may also be at a higher risk of encountering harmful chemicals at their workplace:
If you work in any of these fields, you must protect yourself by using appropriate safety gear and ensuring good ventilation whenever possible.
Regular check-ups with your doctor are also advisable to catch any health issues early on.
Diagnosing hemorrhagic cystitis requires the expertise of a healthcare professional, and the process involves a series of evaluations, examinations, and tests.
Initially, your doctor will review your medical history, looking into recent infections, irritant exposure, or prior treatments such as chemotherapy. They will also inquire about your symptoms before conducting a physical examination, where they assess the abdominal and pelvic regions for any signs of bladder abnormalities.
Following these initial assessments, your doctor may order various tests to pinpoint the cause of your condition. These tests may encompass:
Depending on the results of the initial tests, your doctor may suggest further imaging studies to obtain a more in-depth view of your bladder and kidneys.
Procedures such as ultrasounds, CT scans, MRIs, or cystoscopy provide visual images of your bladder, aiding your doctor in assessing the extent of your infection.
If your condition is suspected to be caused by a viral infection, a PCR test might be necessary to identify the presence of harmful organisms.
After your doctor receives the results of all the assessments and tests, they can make a precise diagnosis and propose an appropriate treatment plan for your condition.
The treatment for hemorrhagic cystitis differs based on the condition's underlying cause.
It usually involves a combination of medications, lifestyle adjustments, and, in more severe instances, surgical procedures.
Various types of medications are used to treat hemorrhagic cystitis, often considered the initial approach to combat the infection.
If the condition results from a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be prescribed by your doctor to address it.
It's crucial to complete the prescribed course of antibiotics, even if your symptoms improve, to ensure complete treatment and prevent the development of antibiotic resistance.
In cases where viral infections are the culprit, antiviral medications might be employed to alleviate your symptoms and aid in recovery.
Your healthcare provider may also recommend over-the-counter (OTC) medications to manage pain and reduce overall discomfort.
In addition to medication, there are lifestyle changes that can be effective in alleviating the symptoms of hemorrhagic cystitis. These may include:
Depending on your individual circumstances, your doctor may also suggest other lifestyle adjustments to lower further your risk of developing hemorrhagic cystitis, including the possibility of surgical intervention.
In cases of severe hemorrhagic cystitis or when standard treatment methods prove ineffective, surgical intervention may become necessary. Common surgical procedures include:
It's essential to acknowledge that surgery may not be suitable for everyone, particularly individuals with underlying health conditions, as it can carry certain risks.
Your doctor will thoroughly discuss these risks with you and assist in determining whether surgery is the most appropriate choice for your specific circumstances.
It's crucial to reach out to your doctor promptly if you suspect you might have hemorrhagic cystitis. This condition can potentially lead to various health complications, especially when left untreated, significantly affecting your quality of life.
Scheduling an appointment with your doctor allows them to:
Assess your overall health and make necessary treatment adjustments.
Furthermore, if you're already undergoing treatment for hemorrhagic cystitis and your symptoms aren't improving, it's advisable to consult your doctor. This could indicate a more severe case requiring an alternative treatment approach.
Mobi Doctor is here to assist, offering consultations for potential cases of hemorrhagic cystitis, as mentioned above. Feel free to seek their guidance for early detection and appropriate treatment.