The bladder, a muscular organ that stores urine, can become inflamed, leading to a condition known as cystitis. This can result from a bacterial or viral infection, although in some cases, it occurs for no identifiable reason. Bacterial cystitis can be dangerous because the infection can spread to the kidneys, where the bacteria can do permanent damage.
Urinary Symptoms
The most common symptoms of acute cystitis involve urination, according to MedlinePlus. Patients with acute cystitis may feel the need to urinate more frequently as a result of the bladder inflammation. The need to urinate during the night, also known as nocturia, is also common. Urination may be painful, and the urine may be an unusual color, cloudy or may have an abnormally strong or foul smell. In some cases, blood will be present in the urine. Many patients also experience a feeling of pressure or pain in the pelvis. Pain in the flanks is also common if the kidneys become infected. Women with acute cystitis may also feel pain during sexual intercourse.
Constitutional Symptoms
Because cystitis is an inflammatory reaction, it can lead to patients having a persistent low-grade fever, MedlinePlus notes. Patients may have a general sense of fatigue or malaise as a result of the infection, as well as nausea and vomiting. In severe cases, patients may experience mental changes or become confused. MedlinePlus reports that such mental changes may be the only observable symptom in elderly patients.
Symptoms in Children
Acute cystitis can be more difficult to diagnose in children because, unlike adults, they may not have any urinary symptoms, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disorders. Infants and children often will experience a prolonged and unexplained fever. They may be irritable, have a diminished appetite and fail to thrive. Some children experience incontinence or have loose bowels. The Mayo Clinic notes that some children with acute cystitis accidentally wet themselves, both during the day and at night.
