Cystitis, commonly known as a urinary tract infection (UTI), is an infection that affects the bladder and urethra. It is a common health problem, especially among women, with 50 to 80 percent of women experiencing at least one UTI in their lifetime.

UTIs can range from mild to severe and can cause a lot of discomfort and pain. Here’s what you need to know about cystitis and how to manage it.

What is cystitis?

Cystitis is an inflammation of the bladder caused by bacterial infection. The bacteria that cause UTIs normally live in the intestinal tract and are harmless. However, if they find their way into the urinary tract, they can cause an infection.

Women are more likely to develop cystitis because their urethra is shorter than men’s, which makes it easier for bacteria to enter the bladder.

Symptoms of cystitis

The most common symptoms of cystitis include:.

Painful urination
Frequent urination
Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
Pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen
Feeling tired or shaky

Cystitis can also cause fever, chills, and nausea in some cases, which indicates a more severe infection.

Diagnosing cystitis

If you suspect you have cystitis, it’s important to see a doctor. Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and perform a physical exam to check for signs of infection. They may also request a urine sample to check for bacteria in the urine.

A urine culture may also be done to determine the type of bacteria present and the best antibiotic to treat it.

Treatment for cystitis

The most common treatment for cystitis is a course of antibiotics prescribed by your doctor. The antibiotics work by killing the bacteria causing the infection.

It’s important to finish the entire course of antibiotics, even if you start to feel better. Failure to complete the course can cause the infection to come back, and the bacteria may develop resistance to antibiotics.

You can also take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to help with the pain and discomfort. Drinking plenty of water can also help flush out the bacteria and reduce the risk of infection.

Preventing cystitis

There are several ways to prevent cystitis, including:.

Drink plenty of water
Wipe front to back after using the toilet
Urinate frequently and don’t hold in urine for long periods of time
Urinate after sex to flush out any bacteria that may have entered the urethra
Avoid using douches, powders, and other feminine products that may irritate the urethra

The risk of developing cystitis can also be reduced by maintaining good hygiene practices, such as keeping the genital area clean.

When to see a doctor

If you have any of the symptoms of cystitis, it’s important to see a doctor. If the infection is left untreated, it can lead to more serious health problems, such as kidney infections.

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention immediately:.

Fever over 101 degrees Fahrenheit
Nausea or vomiting
Pain in the side or back
Blood in the urine

Conclusion

Cystitis is a painful and uncomfortable condition that affects many people, especially women. If you suspect you have cystitis, it’s important to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

Antibiotics are the most common treatment for cystitis, but there are also steps you can take to prevent UTIs from occurring. By maintaining good hygiene practices and following the tips mentioned above, you can reduce your risk of developing cystitis and other UTIs.