Cystitis is the inflammation of the bladder, a term that is commonly interchangeable with a urinary tract infection. Cystitis can occur in adults or children. Cystitis can be caused by a bacterial infection, medications, radiation therapy or other irritants. Cystitis is not typically fatal once symptoms are identified and proper treatment is obtained.
Urinary Symptoms
The most common set of cystitis symptoms relate to how the body produces and releases urine. Most patients report a frequent urge to urinate but they are only able to pass small amounts of urine. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, there may be an increased urgency to urinate at night. Some patients experience a burning or painful sensation when urinating that can range from mild to severe. Urine may be cloudy or strong-smelling or darker in color. Some patients may notice some blood in their urine.
Pain-Related Symptoms
Some patients report a sensation of pain or discomfort in the pelvic area. They may also experience pressure in the lower abdomen, which fluctuates in intensity just before or just after urinating. Flank pain, pain the upper abdomen or back, may also occur. Male cystitis sufferers have reported penis pain is rare but severe cases. Female patients report pain during intercourse therefore abstaining from it may help to alleviate symptoms.
Flu-Like Symptoms
Moderate cases of cystitis may cause a low grade fever up to 102 degrees Fahrenheit. Patients with severe cases of cystitis experience may experience chills, nausea and even vomiting. Cystitis may also experience malaise, a general feeling of illness or not feeling well.
Cognitive Symptoms
The University of Maryland Medical Center indicates that mental changes such as confusion may occur in elderly patients who experience cystitis and sometimes may be the only indicator of cystitis. Because changes in cognition may occur as a result of age or other conditions, a physician should confirm a diagnosis of cystitits before administering treatment.
