What is Cystitis and how is it treated?

Posted by juliabennet on May 5th, 2012

Cystitis technically refers to a condition characterized by the inflammation of bladder. In most cases, this inflammation is the result of a bacterial infection, which can be referred to as a typical case of UTI (urinary tract infection). An infected bladder causes annoying pain, which can even become a serious cause of concern if it spreads to the kidneys.

Cystitis may also be cause s by certain drugs, potential irritants (hygiene spray, long-term catheter use or spermicidal gels) or radiation therapy, though very less likely. It can also occur from other complications or illnesses. The usual cystitis treatment cycles include antibiotics; however, the dose of antibiotics and its course will depend on the cause of the condition.

Symptoms of Cystitis
Cystitis is a very common problem in women. Its symptoms include:
•    persistent and strong urge to urinate
•    burning sensation while urinating
•    frequent urination, passing small amounts of urine
•    blood traces found in urine
•    strong-smelling and cloudy urine
•    discomfort and pain in pelvic area
•    mild fever

What causes Cystitis?
The urinary system is quite complicated. It includes different organs, each playing a vital role in the entire excretory system. Cystitis can be caused by Bacterial infection, which is a classic case. Bacterial bladder infection can occur during sexual intercourse or by using a public toilet. Most of these cases of bacterial infection are caused by a species of E.coli bacteria present in the genitals.
While bacterial infections are very comm. causes of cystitis, there may be some noninfectious causes too. Some examples include interstitial cystitis, drug-induced cystitis, radiation cystitis, foreign-body cystitis, chemical cystitis and reported cases of cystitis caused by other diseases.

Cystitis Treatment
In most of the cases, the condition usually resolves all by itself within a couple of days. Any cystitis that lasts for over 4 days should be reported to the doctor.
Usually, a short course of antibiotics is given to patients suffering from this condition. Most patients start feeling better after taking the medication within the very first day. However, if the symptoms don’t improve, it should be reported once again. Some of the commonly recommended drugs for cystitis treatment are amoxicillin, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, Doxycycline, Ciprofloxacin and Cephalosporins.
There are some home remedies that might help in coping up with the condition too, such as:
•    Pain relievers to control the pain and discomfort. Ibuprofen and paracetamol can be taken.
•    Drink fluids to ensure that urine passage is clear. This will also help in flushing bacteria and toxins out of the system.
•    Stop taking alcohol.
•    Sachets of potassium citrate and sodium citrate may help in easing symptoms.
•    Cranberry juice is an excellent remedy for a healthy urinary tract. Drink lots of cranberry juice to prevent recurring cystitis.
•    Refrain from sexual intercourse once you are found infected.

Cystitis can be prevented by taking certain measures to home.
•    Always practice good hygiene post sex, particularly for women. Use neutral soaps around your genitals.
•    Always try to empty your bladder completely.
•    Whenever you feel the urge to urinate, just do it.
•    Do not wear tight undergarments or trousers.
•    Prefer cotton over any other material for undergarments.

Learn more about cystitis and cystitis treatment by clicking on the links.