Cystitis is an infection of the bladder. It's usually caused by a bacterial infection in the urine or a urinary tract infection. Bacteria can travel up the urethra, the tube that extends from the bladder to the outside of the body, and cause inflammation of the bladder. If treated promptly, cystitis doesn't cause any serious complications, according to the Mayo Clinic. Cystitis is not contagious and can't be passed between partners during intercourse, according to the Better Health Channel.
Symptoms
In some cases, cystitis may not produce any symptoms. Symptoms are related to the degree of infection. The most common symptom is a frequent, urgent need to urinate and a burning sensation while urinating, according to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. The urgency to urinate may result in a loss of bladder control, especially in older adults. Although there is always a frequent need to urinate, the volume of urine is usually very small. The urine is usually cloudy and accompanied by a strong smell. Cystitis is also accompanied by pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen or back.
Causes
Most cystitis cases occur as a result of the E. coli, or Escherichia coli, bacteria. E. coli is normally located in the bowel and gastrointestinal tract, but when the bacteria travel to the bladder, it results in infection. Cystitis can develop due to a stone that causes a blockage in the urethra. In women, cystitis can be caused by sexual intercourse, which can force E. coli bacteria up the urethra, according to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. Cystitis doesn't occur as often in men but can be caused by an infection of the prostate that moves to the bladder.
Risk Factors
Those who are sexually active are more at risk of developing a bladder infection. Pregnancy and the use of a diaphragm are risk factors associated with the development of cystitis in women. After menopause, the chances of developing cystitis increase because a decrease in estrogen production makes the bladder more susceptible to infection, according to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. People with suppressed immune systems, such as those with diabetes or cancer, are more susceptible as well, according to the Mayo Clinic. The frequent use of catheters, such as in an instance of chronic disease, is also a risk factor.
Treatment
Cystitis is treated with antibiotics in order to get rid of the bacteria that caused the infection. While the patient is on antibiotics, the doctor may also prescribe medications such as drugs that reduce bladder spasms. These can decrease the urge to urinate. She may also prescribe drugs that decrease inflammation to reduce the swelling in the bladder, according to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. Drugs should be taken with caution in men who have cystitis due to an infected prostate.
Prevention
Cranberry juice can reduce the chances of recurring cystitis. Other preventative measures include drinking plenty of water, urinating directly after intercourse, urinating as soon as the urge is felt and avoiding the use of feminine sprays around the genitals, according to the Mayo Clinic. Avoiding bubble baths, wiping from front to back after a bowel movement and wearing cotton underwear instead of other fabrics are also beneficial in preventing cystitis, according to the Better Health Channel.
