The excretory system, also known as the urinary system, includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra. The main functions of the excretory system are regulation of fluids and elimination of waste products from the body. Excretory system diseases can be minor conditions that cause discomfort, or can be serious diseases with the potential to cause severe complications.
Cystitis
Cystitis is a disease characterized by inflammation of the bladder, and most often occurs as a result of an infection by the E. coli bacteria. Cystitis may also be caused by certain drugs, radiation therapy or chemical irritants such as feminine sprays, according to MayoClinic.com.
Symptoms include an increased urge to urinate, a burning sensation during urination, passing small amounts of urine, blood in the urine, strong-smelling urine, discomfort in the pelvis and low fever. Left untreated, cystitis can often lead to a kidney infection. When cystitis is caused by a bacterial infection, treatment is a series of antibiotics. If other conditions are the cause of cystitis, treatment focuses on treating the underlying condition, states MayoClinic.com.
Interstitial Nephritis
Interstitial nephritis is a condition in which spaces between the kidney tubules become inflamed, disrupting normal kidney function and causing improper waste filtration. Interstitial nephritis can be acute or chronic. Acute interstitial nephritis is common and most often occurs as a side effect of certain drugs. Chronic interstitial nephritis is a more serious condition that gets progressively worse and can lead to kidney failure. Symptoms of interstitial nephritis include blood in the urine, fever, nausea, vomiting, rash, inflammation throughout the body, weight gain, and increased or decreased urine output, according to MedlinePlus. Treatment of interstitial nephritis focuses on lifestyle modification. Salt, protein and fluid should be limited, and medications that result in acute interstitial nephritis should be avoided. Anti-inflammatory medications may be beneficial to some patients, states MedlinePlus.
Enuresis
Enuresis is the medical term for involuntary bed-wetting. Various factors are thought to play a role in bed-wetting: a small bladder, the inability to recognize when the bladder is full, hormonal imbalances, stress, urinary tract infections, sleep apnea and diabetes, according to MayoClinic.com. Enuresis in children under 6 years old is considered part of a developmental stage, and treatment is not considered to be an option. If bed-wetting continues into older age, medications can be prescribed to slow the production of urine overnight and decrease bladder contractions.
