Cystitis: What Is It And How Do I Avoid It?
What is Cystitis?
Cystitis is an inflammation of the bladder caused by an infection or irritation.
Commonly caused by a lower urinary tract infection (UTI), cystitis usually only affects your bladder, however, if the infection escalates it can result in an upper urinary tract infection in the ureters or kidneys, which can be much more serious.
Approximately one in three women will experience cystitis before the age of twenty-four. Whilst it is less common, children and men can also experience cystitis.
How can I try and prevent it?
If you suffer recurring bouts of cystitis you could consider the following in order to try to prevent it:
Hygiene
Poor toilet hygiene, such as wiping from back to front, could lead to cystitis. In many cases, some women also overcompensate and wash their nether regions too often, causing more harm than good.
Over-cleaning ‘down there’ may alter the normal balance of protective mucus, which may allow bacteria to thrive. Washing gently, once a day is sufficient.
Drink
To flush out your bladder frequently; drinks lots of water – or in the least, avoid caffeine and fizzy drinks. Healthy, hydrated urine is the colour of straw, anything darker means you need to drink more fluids.
Underwear
Where you can, wear cotton underwear and change daily, also avoid tight-fitting trousers and tights. Warm, moist, airless conditions, specifically those around your genitals, are a breeding ground for bad bacteria.
Do I have it?
The most common symptoms of cystitis are:
• Burning or stinging sensations when you pass urine.
• A frequent urge to urinate.
• Feeling that you can’t fully empty your bladder.
The more serious symptoms are:
• Strong smelling urine.
• Cloudy or dark urine.
• Blood in urine,
• Abdominal pain or backache.
• Fever, temperature and weakness.
Conclusion
Cystitis usually clears up within a few days; however, if you are experiencing any of the more serious symptoms visit your GP.
About the Author: Maria Bantellis is a health writer on fungal conditions such as Cystitis
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