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Cystitis

Cystitis
In brief

Cystitis is inflammation of the inner lining of the bladder, most often caused by infection with bacteria such as E. coli. Bacterial cystitis is treated with antibiotics; painkillers, plenty of fluids and treatments that reduce bladder irritation are also used.

Cystitis is usually caused by infection, but irritating substances and some conditions can also inflame the bladder lining. If it keeps coming back, the cause needs to be investigated rather than simply taking antibiotics each time.

Symptoms

  • Pain or burning when passing urine
  • Needing to pass urine often (without passing more urine overall)
  • Urine that smells different or has changed colour
  • Sometimes blood in the urine
  • Pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen or pelvis

Causes

  • Most often, infection with bacteria such as Escherichia coli (E. coli)
  • Chemicals that irritate the bladder lining, such as perfumes and soaps
  • Bacteria being carried into the bladder during sex
  • Conditions that weaken the immune system, medicines that irritate the bladder, and certain conditions such as interstitial cystitis

Treatment and Prevention

Bacterial cystitis is treated with antibiotics. Painkillers, plenty of fluids and treatments that reduce bladder irritation can be added to ease the symptoms.

To help prevent it, drink plenty of water, do not hold on when you need to pass urine and pay attention to sexual hygiene. Untreated or frequently recurring cystitis can lead to serious problems, so if your symptoms do not go away or keep coming back, see a urologist.

Frequently asked questions

Does cystitis go away on its own?
Mild symptoms sometimes settle on their own, but bacterial cystitis usually needs treatment. If the symptoms continue, or you develop a fever or pain in your side, you should see a doctor.
Why does cystitis keep coming back?
Frequent sex, not drinking enough, holding on to urine and the menopause can all make recurrence more likely. For frequently recurring cystitis, a urological assessment is recommended to find the underlying cause.
What tests are done for cystitis?
Diagnosis usually involves a urine test, with a urine culture if needed. For frequent recurrences, further investigations such as an ultrasound may be considered.
Are antibiotics always needed for cystitis?
Antibiotics are the mainstay of treatment for cystitis caused by bacteria. The doctor chooses which medicine to use based on the urine test and, if needed, the culture result.
Can sex cause cystitis?
Bacteria can be carried into the bladder during sex, and in some women this makes cystitis more likely. Paying attention to sexual hygiene helps to reduce the risk.

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