Cystitis

Cystitis is a common infection, it is an infection of the urinary system. If it is not treated in time, it can become more severe and extend to the kidney.

Cystitis is the medical term for a urinary tract infection that results in inflammation of the bladder caused by germs and usually bacteria. After respiratory infections, urinary tract infection is the most common infectious type of disease in the urinary system. A bladder infection is usually very uncomfortable and painful so it is important not to take it lightly and to see a specialist.

Causes of Cystitis

Cystitis is caused by microbes and bacteria entering the urethra and then the bladder. If the infection is not treated, it can become a serious health problem if the infection reaches the kidneys.

The types of Cystitis can be:

Bacterial Cystitis
Non-infectious Cystitis
Interstitial Cystitis
Drug-induced Cystitis
Radiation cystitis
Foreign body cystitis
Chemical Cystitis
Cystitis associated with other conditions

Symptoms of Cystitis

Having the constant need to urinate and even feeling the urge to urinate immediately after doing so
Pain or burning when you urinate
Cramps in the abdominal area and pelvic discomfort
Frequent urination of small amounts
Darkening of the urine and strong odor
Feeling of pressure in the lower abdomen
Occasionally, a low fever

Risk Factors of Cystitis

Pregnancy: The hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy increase the risk of bladder infections.
Diabetes
Menopause: As in pregnancy, hormone levels are altered in postmenopausal women.
Certain types of contraceptives
Enlarged prostate or anything that blocks the flow of urine.
Spending a long period of time without moving: for example, when you are recovering from surgery or a fracture

Diagnosis of Cystitis

The Urologist will perform a physical exam and a series of questions about your medical history.

Among the tests to be carried out, these are the most common:

Urine analysis from a Laboratory
Cystoscopy allows checking the urinary tract to detect any signs of disease
Diagnostic imaging tests (X-Rays or ultrasound)

Treatment of Cystitis

In most cases, the Urologist can prescribe antibiotics if it is a bacterial Cystitis. Depending on the severity of it, the Urologist will prescribe the dose and duration of the treatment.

The cause of interstitial cystitis is unknown; the Urologist recommends the following treatments:

Medications are given by mouth or inserted directly into the bladder.
Methods that manipulate the bladder to relieve discomfort
Nerve stimulation
Treatment of other forms of non-infectious cystitis

The treatment of non-infectious cystitis acquired by chemotherapy or radiotherapy is treated with drugs and with hydration to remove the bladder irritants.

Living with Cystitis

Follow the treatment provided by your Urologist and try to maintain a healthy lifestyle to help improve your quality of life.

These are some recommendations:

Use warm compresses; these can help to ease the pain.
Drink enough fluids to stay hydrated
Take a sitz bath for 15-20 minutes.
Maintain good hygiene daily.

¿When should I see a doctor?

Make your appointment with the Urologist in case of presenting discomfort, persistent pain, or detecting another abnormal symptom.

The Urologist is in charge of treating Cystitis; he will be in charge of making a diagnosis to identify the reason for the symptoms and identify its severity.

When consulting the Urologist, try to keep a record of your pain with a detailed description of the symptoms, duration, and what you think triggered them. Also, mention any medications you are taking.

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