Cystitis Information

Cystitis is a condition that causes discomfort and pain in the bladder and pelvic area and is often chronic. The condition affects women more often than men, and can also affect children. Although cystitis is usually a chronic condition, many people find that they have remissions and achieve relief via medications, lifestyle changes and therapy.

Causes

• Most often the cause of cystitis is an infection caused by bacteria that has made its way into your urethra towards your bladder. The bacteria may get into your bladder from sexual activity, spermicides, post-menopausal conditions, catheters, diabetes, pregnancy, an enlarged prostate or kidney stones.

Symptoms

• The symptoms of cystitis include burning while urinating, frequent urination, cloudy or dark-colored urine, blood in the urine, or pain or tenderness in the abdomen or lower back.

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis of cystitis is simple and includes providing a urine sample for analysis. Your physician will then utilize a dipstick to test your urine or send the sample to a lab.

Treatment

• Treatment may involve trying a number of different remedies, because a treatment that works for one may not work for another, according to the Mayo Clinic. Medications such as ibuprofen, antihistamines and tricyclic antidepressants may help improve the symptoms of cystitis. When medications are not effective, nerve stimulation or bladder distention may be employed.

Prevention

• Prevention methods to avoid cystitis include dietary changes (avoiding caffeine, chocolate, carbonated beverages and citrus), wearing loose clothing, bladder training and stopping smoking.