Cystitis is the clinical term for inflammation of the bladder. This kind of disorder can be the result of bacteria traveling up through urinary tract and colonizing the walls of the bladder. Bacterial cystitis is itself not a serious medical problem but it can lead to a kidney infection, which can cause kidney damage.
Cause
Bacterial cystitis is the result of a urinary tract infection. This typically occurs when bacteria growing on the outside of the body are able to travel up through the urethra and gain access to the bladder. As MedlinePlus explains, this is normally prevented by the outflow of urine, which normally washes out the bacteria from the urinary tract. If the bacteria grow quickly enough, however, then some of it may remain in the bladder, leading to cystitis. The most common bacterial cause of cystitis is E. coli.
Symptoms
Patients with bacterial cystitis, the Mayo Clinic explains, typically experience a burning pain upon urination combined with a persistent feeling that their bladder is full. The urine is often cloudy and foul-smelling and may also have blood in it. In addition, patients may experience pelvic discomfort and a sensation of pressure in the lower abdomen. These infections can also lead to a mild fever.
Risk Factors
Women are more likely to develop bacterial cystitis because their urethra is shorter and closer to the anus (which is a common site of E. coli growth). Recent sexual activity can also increase a person's chance of developing this type of infection, as this can push bacteria into the urethra. Patients with bladder stones, enlarged prostates, a weakened immune system and long-term use of bladder catheters are also at an increased risk of developing bacterial cystitis.
Diagnosis
One way of diagnosing bacterial cystitis, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disorders (NIDDK), is via analysis of the urine. Doctors will use a microscope to look for bacteria and white blood cells in the urine. An ultrasound or a CT scan can also be used to look for any blockage or scarring in the bladder, which can lead to similar symptoms.
Treatment and Prevention
Mild cases of bacterial cystitis can be treated with a three-day course of antibiotics, the NIDDK explains. More severe cases may need a seven-day course of treatment. The exact antibiotic used depends on the type of bacteria causing the infection and whether the patient has any allergies. Patients can prevent bacterial cystitis by drinking lots of fluids, urinating frequently and by wiping front-to-back after a bowel movement.
