Cystitis
Cystitis is the inflammation of the bladder. This inflammation is mainly due to a bacterial urinary tract infection originating in the digestive system, which contaminates the genitals and perineal region and ascends through the urethra. It is more prevalent in women.
Causes
Most infections are usually caused by the bacterium E. coli (Escherichia coli).
- During sexual intercourse: Delaying urination after intercourse, using spermicides, using diaphragms (which contain spermicides), among other factors, increase the risk of urinary tract infections.
- Hormonal factors after menopause and pregnancy.
- Disorders of the urinary tract.
- Obstructions in the urinary tract: Caused by bladder stones, benign prostatic hyperplasia, etc.
- Prolonged use of catheters: Catheters are a common route for bacteria to pass through the urethra, so it is recommended that their use be limited to the time strictly necessary.
- Structural alterations of the bladder wall: In these cases, chronic cystitis often occurs.
- Immune system: When the immune system is weakened for any reason (diabetes, cancer treatments, HIV, etc.), any minor bacterial attack will spread easily.
- Drug-induced cystitis: Drugs such as ifosfamide and cyclophosphamide (used in chemotherapy) can inflame the bladder.
Symptoms
The symptoms are very characteristic:
- Urinary urgency and frequent urination.
- Cloudy urine with a strong odour.
- Burning sensation when urinating.
- Abdominal pain and/or pressure.
- Occasional haematuria (blood in the urine).
- Occasional fever.
- Occasional nausea and vomiting.
Treatment
The main treatment is based on antibiotics, and to determine which one is appropriate, it will often be necessary to perform a ‘urine culture’ to identify the agent causing the infection.
Drink plenty of water and urinate: This helps to flush out the infection.
Chronic cystopathies will often require anatomical pathology diagnoses and sometimes surgical treatments for the underlying condition.