Cystitis is a condition that goes by many names. Intersitial cystitis, painful bladder condition and urinary tract infection (UTI) are all terms that can describe the irritation and possible infection of the bladder that is characterized by a frequent urge to urinate, pain in the lower abdomen and burning during urination. Cystitis can be a one-time problem that resolves itself easily or a recurring issue that requires medical attention. People with minor cystitis can often treat their discomfort naturally through diet, exercise and bladder training.
Diet
Cystitis can be caused by foods that are irritating to the bladder, according to the Mayo Clinic. Staying away from common irritants including caffeinated beverages, spicy food, acidic foods and alcohol may help decrease the recurrence rate of cystitis. Keeping a food journal can help the suffererer determine if specific foods are contributing to cystitis, which can then be eliminated from the diet.
Adjusting the diet to include certain foods may also be a natural way to treat bladder irritation and to prevent infection. Studies throughout the years, ranging from a 1984 article in the "Journal of Urology" to a 2007 issue of "Phytomedicine," suggest that drinking cranberry juice may help stave off bladder infections and their unpleasant symptoms.
Saw palmetto, an herbal supplement, can lessen the symptoms of cystitis that are associated with an enlarged prostate, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM).
Heat
Heat can help relieve the pain of cystitis, though the application of heat will not cure an infection or solve the source of irritation. The Mayo Clinic suggests using a warm heating pad on the lower abdomen or taking a warm sitz bath as natural forms of pain relief. Baths should not contain soap or other cleansers that can contribute to bladder irritation. Treatment sessions of 15 minutes can alleviate symptoms of minor cystitis.
Bladder Training
Training the bladder to fill and stretch out can be a noninvasive way to solve the problem of sudden urges to void. Part of the issue regarding frequent urges to urinate is that the person gets used to using the bathroom often and the cycle never breaks. By incrementally waiting a few more minutes every time the urge to void strikes, the bladder learns to fill up more. Some people find that after bladder training, they no longer feel the urgent need to urinate, according to the National Kidney and Urological Disorders Information Clearinghouse (NKUDIC).
Exercise
Physical exercise may treat the symptoms of interstitial cystitis, according to the NKUDIC. Getting the motivation to work out while experiencing pain may be difficult but can have a positive effect on the level of discomfort and the urges to void.
