Cystitis means inflammation of the bladder. It usually occurs due to a bacterial infection, but other causes can also lead to cystitis. Cystitis is one of the most common types of urinary tract infections (UTIs). The most common cause of cystitis is Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria, which are typically found in the intestines. These bacteria can move from the urethra (urinary tract) to the bladder, causing an infection. Other bacteria like Proteus, Klebsiella, and Enterococcus can also cause cystitis. Some female hygiene products, spermicides, soaps, or deodorants can irritate the bladder and urethra area, leading to cystitis. Certain medications, especially those used in cancer treatments, can irritate the bladder.
Radiation therapy applied to the pelvic area can irritate the bladder tissue and cause cystitis. Anatomical abnormalities or functional disorders of the bladder or urethra can increase the risk of cystitis. The duration of treatment and choice of medication depend on the severity of the infection and individual patient factors. Cystitis is a common condition that usually responds well to treatment. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, consulting a healthcare professional is important.
Cystitis Symptoms
Cystitis symptoms result from the inflammation of the bladder and are usually quite uncomfortable.
- increased frequency of urination
- pain and burning sensation
- urgent need to urinate
- changes in urine color and odor
- presence of blood
- lower abdominal pain
- fever
- general discomfort
- discomfort during sexual intercourse
Cystitis symptoms can range from mild to severe and usually improve with treatment within a few days. However, if symptoms are severe, especially if there are signs like fever, chills, or side pain, it may indicate a more serious infection, and immediate medical attention is necessary. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the kidneys, leading to more serious health problems.
How to Diagnose Cystitis?
Doctors usually diagnose cystitis based on the patient’s symptoms and medical history. Some tests may be done to confirm the diagnosis and determine the appropriate treatment.
Medical History and Physical Examination: The doctor questions the patient about their symptoms and signs. Information is gathered about pain during urination, frequent urination, urgent need to urinate, bloody urine, past urinary tract infections, current health conditions, and medications used.
Urine Analysis: A urine sample taken from the patient is analyzed in the laboratory. Urine analysis helps detect signs of infection (bacteria, leukocytes, nitrites) and other abnormalities (blood, protein). A rapid urine test, called a dipstick test, checks for the presence of leukocyte esterase and nitrites in the urine. A positive result may indicate an infection.
Urine Culture: Urine culture is used to determine the type and number of bacteria in the urine. This test helps identify the specific bacteria causing the infection and select the appropriate antibiotic treatment. An antibiogram test may be done to determine which antibiotics are effective against the bacteria grown in the culture.
Imaging Tests: Ultrasound can be used to evaluate structural abnormalities or obstructions in the urinary tract and bladder. A more detailed imaging method, CT, can be used in recurrent or complicated cystitis cases. X-rays, usually done with contrast material, can be used to detect structural problems in the urinary tract.
Cystoscopy: Cystoscopy is a procedure used to examine the inside of the bladder and the condition of the urethra. A thin, lighted tube (cystoscope) is passed through the urethra and the inside of the bladder is directly visualized. It is done, especially in recurrent cystitis cases, or to determine if there are any underlying serious issues.
Other Tests: Blood tests can be done to check if the bacterial infection has spread to the body. These tests are used to assess general infection signs and kidney function.
Doctors can usually diagnose cystitis quickly based on urine analysis and culture results. However, more advanced tests may be needed in recurrent or complicated cases. Treatment is arranged based on the severity of symptoms and the cause of the infection after confirming the diagnosis. If untreated, cystitis can spread to the kidneys, leading to more serious health problems. Therefore, it is important to consult a healthcare professional when symptoms appear.
How to Treat Cystitis?
Doctors usually determine cystitis treatment based on the cause and severity of the infection. Treatment options include:
Antibiotic Treatment: Since bacterial infection is the most common cause of cystitis, antibiotics are usually the first treatment option. Your doctor will prescribe an appropriate antibiotic that targets the specific bacteria causing the infection. In simple cystitis cases, antibiotic treatment usually lasts 3-7 days. In more complicated or recurrent infections, the treatment duration may be longer. Commonly used antibiotics include Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, Nitrofurantoin, and Fosfomycin.
Pain Relievers and Supportive Treatment: Pain relievers can be used to relieve pain during urination. Medications like Paracetamol or Ibuprofen can be used for this purpose. Medications like Phenazopyridine can reduce pain by numbing the bladder wall. However, these medications only provide short-term relief and are not suitable for long-term use.
Increased Fluid Intake: Drinking plenty of fluids helps regularly cleanse the bladder and remove bacteria. Water is the best option for this purpose. In addition to water, herbal teas and natural fruit juices can also be consumed. Caffeinated and alcoholic beverages should be avoided as they can irritate the bladder.
Medicated Baths and Warm Compresses: Warm sitz baths can relieve irritation and discomfort in the genital area. Applying warm compresses to the lower abdomen can also reduce pain and discomfort.
Lifestyle and Diet Changes: Good hygiene practices can reduce the risk of infection. Cleaning from front to back after using the toilet prevents bacteria from entering the urethra. Wearing cotton underwear and avoiding tight clothing can help keep the genital area dry. Urinating after sexual intercourse can prevent bacteria from reaching the bladder.
Probiotics: Probiotics can help balance the intestinal and vaginal flora. Lactobacillus-containing probiotics can reduce the risk of recurrent cystitis.
Alternative and Complementary Therapies: Some studies suggest that cranberry juice or supplements can help prevent urinary tract infections. However, the evidence on this is limited, and its effectiveness can vary from person to person. D-mannose, a natural sugar, can be beneficial for some people in preventing urinary tract infections. This sugar can prevent bacteria from adhering to the bladder wall.
Treatments for Advanced and Complicated Cases: In recurrent cystitis cases, cystoscopy may be performed to examine the bladder and urethra. This procedure can help determine underlying causes. Surgical intervention may be required to treat underlying causes such as anatomical abnormalities or bladder stones.
Cystitis treatment is usually effective, and symptoms start to improve within a few days. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, a doctor should be consulted immediately. Additionally, more detailed examinations and long-term treatment plans may be necessary in cases of recurrent infections.
How to Manage Cystitis?
Cystitis management involves a series of strategies to treat the infection and prevent its recurrence.
Increased Water Intake: Drinking at least 8 glasses of water a day helps regularly cleanse the bladder and remove bacteria from the bladder.
Non-alcoholic and Caffeine-free Beverages: In addition to water, herbal teas and natural fruit juices can also be consumed. Caffeinated and alcoholic beverages should be avoided as they can irritate the bladder.
Post-toilet Cleaning: Cleaning from front to back after using the toilet prevents bacteria from entering the urethra.
Urinating After Sexual Intercourse: Urinating after sexual intercourse can prevent bacteria from reaching the bladder.
Cotton Underwear: Wearing cotton underwear and avoiding tight clothing can help keep the genital area dry.
Avoiding Irritants: Foods and drinks that can irritate the bladder, such as spicy foods, alcohol, caffeine, and acidic beverages, should be avoided.
Healthy Diet: A diet rich in fiber supports bowel health and can indirectly improve urinary tract health.
Antibiotics: Antibiotics prescribed by a doctor are used to treat bacterial infections. Antibiotic treatment usually lasts 3-7 days, but may be used for a longer period in recurrent infections.
Pain Relievers: Pain relievers like Paracetamol or Ibuprofen can be used to relieve pain during urination.
Bladder Anesthetics: Medications like Phenazopyridine can reduce pain by numbing the bladder wall, but these medications only provide short-term relief.
Cranberry Products: Some studies suggest that cranberry juice or supplements can help prevent urinary tract infections.
D-Mannose: D-mannose, a natural sugar, can be beneficial for some people in preventing urinary tract infections.
Follow-up Appointments: In recurrent cystitis cases, regular doctor check-ups are important. This helps identify underlying causes and create appropriate treatment plans.
Urine Analysis and Culture: In recurrent cystitis cases, urine analysis and culture can determine the cause of the infection and the appropriate treatment method.
Probiotic Supplements: Lactobacillus-containing probiotics can help balance the intestinal and vaginal flora and reduce the risk of recurrent cystitis.
Warm Sitz Baths: Can relieve irritation and discomfort in the genital area.
Warm Compress: Applying warm compresses to the lower abdomen can reduce pain and discomfort.
Patient Education: Patients must recognize cystitis symptoms, learn infection prevention strategies, and seek medical help when necessary.
Increased Awareness: Educational programs that raise awareness about sexual health, hygiene, and proper toilet habits can help reduce the risk of cystitis.
Managing cystitis requires a multidisciplinary approach to treat the infection and prevent its recurrence. A combination of these strategies can help alleviate cystitis symptoms and prevent its recurrence. If any symptoms persist or worsen, a healthcare professional should be consulted immediately.