Cystitis is an infection of the bladder and ureters, which can cause inflammation and tissue damage. Infectious cystitis can be caused by bacterial organisms, while non-infectious cystitis can be caused by drugs, medical treatments, chemicals and certain medical conditions. This condition can cause blood in the urine, pelvic discomfort, urinary urgency, burning while urinating, cloudy urine, strong-smelling urine and pressure in the lower abdomen.
Infections
Bacterial cystitis can be caused by a number of infectious organisms, particularly E. coli. According to the Mayo Clinic, community-acquired bladder infections (infections acquired outside of a hospital) occur most commonly in women who are between the ages of 30 and 50. Men over the age of 50 are also at risk for bladder infections because an enlarged prostate gland can reduce the flow of urine and allow bacteria to accumulate in the bladder. Hospital-acquired infections occur in hospitals and nursing homes and usually follow the use of a catheter for urine drainage or diagnostic testing.
Chronic Inflammation
Chronic inflammation of the bladder is referred to as interstitial cystitis or painful bladder syndrome. While there is no known cause for this condition, researchers have made strides in determining what contributes to interstitial cystitis. According to the Office of Women's Health, a division of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, a substance that blocks the normal growth of bladder wall cells has been found in the urine of some people with this condition. Genetics may also play a role in the development of interstitial cystitis.
Medications & Treatments
Some medications can cause inflammation in the bladder because they are metabolized by the kidneys and excreted in the urine. As the urine accumulates in the bladder, the broken-down chemicals can irritate the bladder's lining. Chemotherapy drugs such as ifosfamide and cyclophosphamide are known causes of cystitis. Radiation therapy administered to the pelvic area can also cause inflammation of the bladder tissue.
Catheterization
Catheterization is a procedure in which a flexible plastic tube is inserted into the bladder through the urethra so that urine can be drained. This is often done on elderly patients who may have problems urinating. It is also done to prepare patients for surgery, introduce medications into the bladder or prepare patients for diagnostic testing. Each time a catheter is introduced into the bladder, the risk of tissue damage and inflammation increases. It is also possible that bacteria can enter the bladder due to catheterization.
Medical Disorders
Some medical disorders cause inflammation that can affect the bladder. Reproductive disorders such as pelvic inflammatory disease and cancers of the reproductive tract can cause cystitis as a complication. Endometriosis, which is the presence of endometrial tissue in other areas of the body, can also lead to cystitis. Crohn's disease, lupus, diverticulitis and tuberculosis are also known causes of cystitis.
Chemicals
Chemicals in spermicide, bubble bath, feminine hygiene products and soaps can irritate the lining of the bladder, causing inflammation. Avoid these products if you experience cystitis after taking a bubble bath or using sprays and soaps.
Sexual Intercourse
Sexual intercourse can contribute to the development of cystitis in women. During intercourse, the motion can push bacteria into the urethra, where it travels to the bladder. The bacteria can cause infection and inflammation. The Nemours Foundation recommends that women urinate before intercourse and within 15 minutes after intercourse to prevent bacteria from entering the urinary tract. Washing the genitals after intercourse can also help prevent bladder infections.
