What is cystitis

Medical Definition

Cystitis is acute or chronic inflammation of the urinary bladder, most commonly caused by bacterial infection. The condition disrupts normal bladder function, causing uncomfortable and often painful symptoms. While bacterial cystitis is the most common form, inflammation can result from other causes including viral infections, chemical irritants, or radiation therapy. Understanding cystitis is important because untreated infections can progress to more serious kidney infections.

Causes and Risk Factors

The primary cause of cystitis is bacterial infection, with Escherichia coli (E. coli) responsible for approximately 85% of cases. Bacteria from the gastrointestinal tract can contaminate the urethra and ascend into the bladder. Risk factors include:

• Anatomical factors: Women are significantly more susceptible due to shorter urethras
• Sexual activity: Can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract
• Urinary retention: Holding urine allows bacteria to multiply
• Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and pressure on the bladder increase infection risk
• Underlying conditions: Diabetes, immunosuppression, and urinary obstruction increase susceptibility

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Common symptoms of cystitis include dysuria (painful urination), urinary urgency and frequency, and lower abdominal or suprapubic pain. Some individuals experience hematuria (blood in urine), fever, or cloudy urine. Diagnosis typically involves urinalysis to detect bacteria, white blood cells, and nitrites, often confirmed through urine culture identifying the specific pathogen.

Treatment and Management

Bacterial cystitis is treated with appropriate antibiotics, commonly including nitrofurantoin, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, or fluoroquinolones. Most cases resolve within 7-10 days of antibiotic therapy. Supportive care includes increased fluid intake, analgesics for pain relief, and urinary alkalinizers that can reduce dysuria. Completing the full antibiotic course is essential to prevent antibiotic resistance.

Prevention Strategies

Reducing cystitis risk involves multiple preventive approaches: maintaining proper hygiene, wiping from front to back after urination, voiding immediately after sexual activity, staying adequately hydrated, and avoiding bladder irritants like caffeine and alcohol. Cranberry supplements show modest benefits in some studies, though evidence remains mixed. Women with recurrent infections may benefit from prophylactic antibiotics or other medical interventions.