CYSTITIS

Cystitis is inflammation of the bladder, most often caused by bacterial infection. It can occur at any age and occurs more commonly in women than in men. About 20% of women will develop a urinary tract infection such as cystitis during their lifetime. Although cystitis may be recurrent, it is usually easy to treat with antibiotics and does not usually lead to kidney disease.

Symptoms of cystitis include burning or pain during urination, urgent need to urinate, increased frequency of urination, pain or pressure above the pubic bone and in the lower back and visible blood in the urine.

Cystitis can be diagnosed by completing a patient history and physical examination. It is important to identify or rule out other conditions such as bladder tumors, stones, or vaginitis which may cause symptoms similar to cystitis. A urinalysis which looks for WBC, RBC, bacteria and a urine culture, the incubation of urine on plates to identify bacteria and determine which drugs will eliminate them.

Cystitis is treated using a short course of an oral antibiotic. You may be asked to return for follow up urinalysis to ensure that the urine is free from infection. Additional medications to relieve painful urination or bladder spasms may also be prescribed.

Cystitis can be prevented by drinking large amount of fluids, urinating at least once every 3-4 hours, urinating before and after intercourse and using proper personal hygiene.