Causes, symptoms and treatment of cystitis

Cystitis

Cystitis, inflammation of the bladder, is more common in women, and is in fact, one of the most common medical conditions in women today.

Symptoms

*Passing urine frequently

*Pain and discomfort on urinating

*Feeling the need to pass urine immediately after urinating

*Passing blood stained urine

*Urgency (suddenly needing to go!)

*Sometimes even soreness and tenderness of the vulva (as the inflammation extends outwards)

It occurs most often in sexually active women in their late teens to early thirties, but can of course, happen at any age. Some women are subject to repeated attacks of cystitis. Women are more prone to this condition, because of the way they are made. The bladder opens to the exterior via a short passage called the urethra, which is very close to the vagina and anus. Bacteria and germs from the anus, therfore, can easily reach the bladder via the urethra, to cause infection, and inflammation.

Sexual intercourse can cause cystitis, by irritation of the urethra, through friction (honeymoon cystitis), or through bacteria being pushed into the urethra during the act of love making. Some women find wearing tight fitting trousers, tight nylon underwear, using perfumed soaps, bath oils and talc can cause inflammation of the vulva which may spread to the urethra and bladder.

Self help tips for cystitis

*Drink plenty of fluids as soon as you feel the symptoms starting

*Pass water frequently and do not try to `hold on'

*Always wipe your bottom from front to back as this stops the spread of bacteria from the anus to the bladder

*Avoid antiseptics and perfumed soaps

*Keep the vaginal area clean using plain water and unperfumed soap

Women can reduce the chances of getting post intercourse cystitis by washing before and after intercourse, and also by emptying the bladder immediately after sex. As soon as you feel the symptoms starting, take a sample of urine to your doctor for examination, and take any treatment for the full recommended course.

Some of the newer antibiotics for cystitis only requires one single dose, instead of the standard 5 day course of treatment!
IMPORTANT NOTICE : This content is from the Dr Chris Steele personal archive and is provided for convenience only. Information contained here may no longer agree with the most up to date medical advice. Please check with a medical professional before taking any action.

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