Cystitis is a condition in which the bladder becomes inflamed. If this inflammation is caused by a bacterial infection, then it is referred to as a urinary tract infection. Cystitis can be serious problem if the infection affects your kidneys. Other possible causes of cystitis include reactions to drugs, radiation or prolonged catheter use. Symptoms of cystitis include increased urination, burning when urinating, blood in the urine, pelvic pain and fever. Treatment may depend on the cause of the condition. Certain foods may help prevent, relieve or control symptoms of cystitis.
Water
You should drink 2 to 4 quarts of fluids per day if you have cystitis, according to MedlinePlus. This may help prevent infections from occurring. According to MayoClinic.com, water can dilute your urine and flush out harmful bacteria and toxins. This may help relieve your painful symptoms. MayoClinic.com also advises that you avoid beverages such as coffee, alcohol and caffeinated soft drinks. These drinks can be dehydrating and may aggravate symptoms.
Vitamin C
The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends that you consume vitamin C in order to prevent or manage symptoms of urinary tract infections. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that provides your body with immune support. A healthy immune system is important in order to fight infection and disease. Good sources of vitamin C include oranges, limes, strawberries and broccoli.
Cranberry Juice And Berries
Cranberry juice may help fight bacterial infections that lead to urinary tract infections, a type of cystitis. According to MayoClinic.com, evidence suggests that drinking cranberry juice may prevent the onset of urinary tract infections in women. Studies on older adults and children have been inconclusive. According to MayoClinic.com, the amount and frequency of cranberry juice intake needed to give you this benefit is uncertain. They caution that if you take the drug warfarin, then you should avoid cranberry juice intake because of possible drug interactions. Fruits such as cranberries and blueberries may also help reduce the occurrence and reoccurence of urinary tract infections. According to MayoClinic.com, these fruits can stop bacteria from attaching to bladder tissue.
