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Medically Reviewed

By

Chrysoula I. Liakou

MD, PhD, Internal Medicine Specialist and
Cancer Immunology Researcher.

What Is Cystitis?

Cystitis is when the bladder gets swollen and irritated, usually because of a bacterial infection. It’s a type of urinary tract infection (UTI) that can cause a lot of discomfort. The infection happens when bacteria from the area between the anus and genitals (called the perineum) travel up the urethra into the bladder. Once in the bladder, the bacteria can grow and cause inflammation.

 

Cystitis can affect anyone, but it is much more common in girls and women. This is because women have a shorter urethra, which makes it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder. The urethra in women is also closer to the anus, where bacteria can live, which makes infections more likely. Men can get cystitis, too, but it’s less common.

 

Most of the time, cystitis can be treated with antibiotics, which help clear the infection. You must see a doctor if you have symptoms that keep returning or don’t get better. Getting treatment early can make you feel better and prevent more severe problems.

Cystitis Symptoms

Cystitis can be painful and frustrating, and it’s important to know the signs so you can seek treatment early. The symptoms are often caused by inflammation or bladder irritation, typically from a bacterial infection. Here are the common symptoms to watch out for:

  • Frequent Urge To Urinate: Feeling like you need to pee often, even if only a little urine comes out.

  • Burning Or Stinging Sensation: A painful or uncomfortable feeling when urinating.

  • Pressure Or Discomfort: A sense of fullness or pressure in the lower abdomen or lower back.

  • Cloudy Or Dark-Coloured Urine: Urine may look different and appear cloudy or dark.

  • Strong-Smelling Urine: An unpleasant or foul odour in the urine.

  • Blood In Urine: Sometimes, there may be small amounts of blood, making the urine appear pinkish.

  • Pain During Sexual Intercourse: Discomfort or pain can occur during sex.

  • Low-Grade Fever: A slight fever may accompany the infection.

  • Fatigue: Feeling exhausted, significantly if the infection affects your overall well-being.

If these symptoms worsen or you develop a high fever, nausea, or severe back pain, the infection has spread to your kidneys. In that case, seek medical help immediately.

Cystitis Causes

Cystitis is often caused by bacteria entering the bladder and causing inflammation. The most common bacteria responsible for cystitis is Escherichia coli (E. coli), which usually lives harmlessly in the intestines but can sometimes travel to the bladder. Other bacteria, like Proteus mirabilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Staphylococcus saprophyticus, can cause bladder infections.

Certain factors make cystitis more likely. For example, women are more prone to cystitis because their urethra (the tube that carries urine out of the body) is shorter and closer to the anus, making it easier for bacteria to enter the bladder. Men can get cystitis too, especially if they have issues like an enlarged prostate, which can block normal urine flow.

Some common risk factors include:

  • Sexual Activity: Friction during sex can irritate the urethra, making it easier for bacteria to get into the bladder.

  • Menopause: Lower estrogen levels during menopause can thin the urethra lining, increasing the risk of infection.

  • Using Catheters: People who need urinary catheters, especially for a long time, are more likely to develop cystitis.

  • Diabetes: High sugar levels in urine can create a good environment for growing bacteria.

  • Radiotherapy: Radiation treatment around the pelvis can irritate the bladder.

Using certain contraceptives, like diaphragms, can also increase the risk, as can hygiene products that irritate the urethra. Understanding these causes can help you take steps to prevent bladder infections.

Cystitis Treatment

Antibiotics

When a bacterial infection causes cystitis, antibiotics are the primary treatment. Your doctor will prescribe the correct antibiotic based on the type of bacteria found in your urine test. To ensure the infection is fully treated, it’s essential to complete the entire course of antibiotics, even if your symptoms improve early. Common antibiotics include:

  • Nitrofurantoin

  • Amoxicillin

  • Cephalosporins

  • Sulfa drugs (e.g., sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim)

  • Ciprofloxacin

If your symptoms do not improve after finishing the antibiotics, it’s essential to return to your doctor.

Home Remedies And Self-Care

Symptoms may go away independently for mild cystitis within a few days. However, self-care methods can help ease discomfort:

  • Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps flush out bacteria from the bladder.

  • Cranberry Juice: Drinking cranberry juice or taking cranberry tablets may help prevent infections.

  • Heat Therapy: A heating pad on your lower abdomen or back can relieve pain.

  • Over-The-Counter Pain Relief: Medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce pain and discomfort.

  • Sitz Baths: Soaking in warm water can help soothe the pelvic area.

Lifestyle Adjustments

Making certain lifestyle changes can also be beneficial:

  • Wear Cotton Underwear: This helps keep the area dry and reduces irritation.

  • Avoid Irritating Foods: Cut back on caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods that may worsen symptoms.

  • Loose Clothing: Wearing loose-fitting clothes can prevent moisture build-up and discomfort.

Advanced Treatments

In cases of chronic or severe cystitis, more advanced treatments may be needed:

  • Bladder Stretching: Filling the bladder with water or gas to relieve symptoms temporarily.

  • Nerve Stimulation: Using mild electrical pulses to reduce pelvic pain and the need to urinate frequently.

  • Surgery: Rarely used and typically reserved for fixing structural problems or long-term issues.

Consult your doctor to discuss the best treatment plan based on your symptoms and medical history.

Cystitis Prevention

Although cystitis can’t always be prevented, following these tips can help lower your risk:

  • Practice Good Hygiene:

    • Wipe from front to back after using the toilet to prevent bacteria from spreading.

    • Take showers instead of baths, and wash the genital area gently with neutral, unperfumed soap.

    • If you use a catheter, follow proper instructions from your doctor or nurse on how to change it safely.

  • Stay Hydrated:

    • Drink fluids, especially water, to flush bacteria from your bladder.

    • Avoid postponing urination; try to empty your bladder as soon as you feel the need.

  • Hygiene After Sexual Activity:

    • Urinate right after sex to help remove any bacteria that may have entered the urethra.

    • Drink a glass of water after intercourse to aid in flushing out bacteria.

    • Use a water-based lubricant during sex to reduce irritation and risk of infection.

  • Wear The Right Clothing:

    • Choose cotton underwear and avoid tight pants to dry the area and discourage bacteria growth.

  • Consider Birth Control Options:

    • If you get frequent infections, consider changing your birth control method. Diaphragms and spermicides can increase the risk of cystitis.

  • For Postmenopausal Women:

    • Talk to your doctor about using topical oestrogen cream to keep vaginal tissues healthy.

  • Supplements:

    • Discuss with your doctor the use of over-the-counter options like D-mannose and cranberry supplements to help prevent infections.

By making these changes, you can better protect your bladder health and reduce the risk of cystitis. Mobi Doctor offers expert guidance and personalised advice to help prevent and treat cystitis. Access convenient, professional support from the comfort of your home and take control of your bladder health today.

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