As defined by The Merck Manuals Online Medical Library, bladder inflammation or cystitis is a medical condition that can result from bacterial infection, drugs, certain types of medical conditions and treatments, as well as chemicals. Bladder inflammation is marked by symptoms like an increased urge to urinate, pelvic discomfort, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, blood in the urine and burning sensation during urination. The Interstitial Cystitis Association estimates more than 4 million people in the United States are being affected by chronic forms of bladder inflammation as of 2010. Bladder inflammation can occur as a result of several causes.
Bacterial Infection
Bladder infection, due to Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria, is one of the common causes of bladder inflammation, states MayoClinic.com. E. coli is the one of the common species of bacteria found in the female genital area. The Merck Manuals Online Medical Library reports women are more susceptible to bladder infection because the length of urethra in women is shorter and closer to the anus, compared to men. Bacterial infections due to E. coli can be treated with antibiotics. However, some newer strains of E. coli that are antibiotic-resistant are difficult to treat.
Sexual Intercourse
According to MayoClinic.com, sexual intercourse may be associated with bladder inflammation. The motion performed during sexual intercourse can enhance the tendency of bacteria to reach the urethra. These bacteria can spread to the bladder, resulting in inflammation. Urinating post-sexual intercourse can reduce the chances of bladder infections, as further reported by MayoClinic.com.
Medications and Treatments
MayoClinic.com states certain medications and treatment may lead to bladder inflammation. These medications are mainly those which are metabolized by the kidneys and excreted through urine. Bladder inflammation can occur in such cases because the broken-down components can irritate the lining of the bladder. Some medications of this category include chemotherapy drugs like cyclophosphamide and ifosfamide. Radiation therapy given at the pelvic area may also result in bladder inflammation.
Menopause
Menopause may also be associated with bladder inflammation, reports The Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. Menopause is a natural phenomenon marked by the permanent cessation of the female reproductive cycle, usually between the ages of 45 and 50. Menopause is often marked by a decrease in the production of estrogen, which results in thinning of the vaginal and vulvar tissues around the urethra. Such changes may enhance the risks of women to acquire bladder inflammation.
