Cystitis, also referred to as a urinary tract infection or UTI, is an inflammation of the bladder. Typically caused by a bacterial infection, cystitis may also be caused by certain drugs, long-term use of a catheter or by irritants such as some feminine hygiene products or spermicidal jellies. Common symptoms include frequent urination and a burning sensation when urinating. Women are at a greater risk of suffering from cystitis as they have a shorter urethra, so the bacteria have less distance to travel to reach the bladder. Cystitis can lead to a kidney infection, so if someone is suffering with painful or frequent urination that lasts for hours, has blood in her urine, a fever and back or side pain, the Mayo Clinic recommends that a doctor be consulted immediately.
Cranberry
In a study published in a 2001 issue of the "British Medical Journal," the use of cranberry juice was studied on 150 women who suffered from UTIs. The team found that regularly drinking 50 ml of cranberry juice helped to reduce the occurrence of urinary tract infections.
"American Family Physician" explains that cranberry may help prevent UTIs by preventing the bacteria responsible for the infection from attaching to the membranes in the bladder. They also point out that cranberry tablets can be taken instead of drinking juice, and recommend one tablet of 300 to 400 mg of concentrated cranberry twice a day.
Cranberry is considered a safe herb to take and is generally well tolerated, but it should not be used long-term without consulting a health professional. People who are known urinary oxalate stone formers need to be particularly cautious.
Drink Plenty of Fluids
Drinking plenty of fluids ensures frequent urination, which according to Drugs.com helps to flush bacteria from the bladder. The Mayo Clinic, however, points out that alcohol, coffee and citrus juices should be avoided as they can irritate the bladder and interfere with the need to urinate.
Personal Hygiene
Harsh soaps, deodorant sprays, vigorous washing and feminine products used around the genitals should be avoided by those who suffer with cystitis, according to the Mayo Clinic, as they can irritate the urethra and bladder, exacerbate symptoms and increase the risk of a further infection. Mayo Clinic urologist Erik Castle, M.D. explains that the skin around the vagina and anus is delicate and so should be gently washed daily with a mild soap and plenty of water, and recommends showers instead of baths for those who are very prone to infection.
To prevent bacteria infection spreading from the anus to the vagina and urethra, it is also important to wipe from front to back after a bowel movement.
References
- Mayo Clinic : Cystitis
- "British Medical Journal"; Randomised trial of cranberry-lingonberry juice and Lactobacillus GG drink for the prevention of urinary tract infections in women. Kontiokari T, Sundqvist K, Nuutinen M, Pokka T, Koskela M, Uhari M: 2001
- American Family Physician: Cranberry for Prevention of Urinary Tract Infections
- Drugs.com: Cystitis
- Mayo Clinic: Cystitis
