CYSTITIS

Overview & Facts

Cystitis is inflammation of the bladder, commonly caused by bladder infection.

It’s a usual form of urinary tract infection (UTI), notably in women, and is more of a nuisance than a cause for serious trouble. Mild circumstances will get better by within a few days.

Nevertheless, some individuals experience episodes of cystitis and might need regular or long-term remedy.

There’s also a risk for cystitis to be a more serious kidney infection in some cases, so it is important to get medical advice in case your condition fails to improve.

Types & Symptoms

Symptoms of cystitis in adults include:

  • Pain, burning or stinging when you pee
  • Needing to pee more often and urgently than normal
  • Feeling like you want to urinate again immediately after going to the toilet
  • Urine that’s dark, cloudy or strong-smelling
  • Pain low down in your tummy
  • Feeling generally unwell, achy, sick and tired
  • Blood in your urine

Possible symptoms of cystitis in young children may include:

  • A high temperature (fever) of 38C (100.4F) or above
  • Weakness and tiredness
  • Irritability
  • Reduced appetite
  • Vomiting

Diagnosis & Medications

DIAGNOSIS

Seek your doctor if you have the following:

  • You’re not sure whether you have cystitis
  • Your symptoms don’t start to improve within a few days
  • You get cystitis frequently
  • You have severe symptoms, such as blood in your urine, a fever or pain in your side
  • You are pregnant and have cystitis symptoms
  • You’re a man and have symptoms of cystitis

Your GP will have to be able to diagnose cystitis by asking about your symptoms. They may test your urine for bacteria to help verify the analysis.

 

TREATMENT

  • Take paracetamol or ibuprofen
  • Drink plenty of water
  • Hold a hot water bottle on your tummy or between your thighs
  • Avoid having sex
  • Consulting your doctor for antibiotics or other treatments
  • Try over-the-counter products that reduce the acidity of urine (such as sodium bicarbonate or potassium citrate

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