Cystitis

Additional information

Understanding Cystitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

What is Cystitis?

Cystitis is a common urinary tract infection (UTI) that primarily affects the bladder, causing inflammation and pain. It leads to uncomfortable symptoms such as a burning sensation during urination, frequent and urgent urges to pee, and sometimes cloudy or blood-tinged urine. Although it can be very uncomfortable, cystitis is usually treatable with the right approach.

What Causes Cystitis?

• Bacterial Infection: Most often caused by E. coli bacteria, which usually live harmlessly in the gut but can cause problems when they enter the urinary tract.
• Pathway of Infection: Bacteria can travel from the anus to the urethra and then up to the bladder.
• Risk Factors: Factors like sexual intercourse, improper wiping (back to front), and the use of certain feminine hygiene products can contribute. Additional triggers include urinary tract blockages, catheter use, and other medical conditions that compromise the urinary system.
• Gender Differences: Women are more prone to cystitis due to their shorter urethra, allowing bacteria easier access to the bladder.

Recognising the Symptoms of Cystitis

• Mild Symptoms:
  • Burning or stinging during urination
  • Frequent, urgent need to urinate, even if only small amounts come out
  • Lower abdominal or lower back pain
  • Changes in urine such as cloudiness, strong smell, or blood traces
• Severe Symptoms:
  • Intense pain in the lower back or sides, possibly indicating kidney infection (pyelonephritis)
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Fever above 38°C
  • Noticeable blood in the urine
    If you experience any severe symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

Diagnosing Cystitis

• Initial Diagnosis: If it’s your first time experiencing these symptoms or if they are severe, consult a healthcare professional.
• Self-Diagnosis: Women who have had cystitis before might recognize the symptoms but should see a doctor if the infection occurs more than three times a year, during pregnancy, or if severe signs such as fever or blood in the urine appear.
• Medical Tests: A GP may diagnose cystitis by reviewing your symptoms and medical history and may also take a urine sample to check for bacteria. This helps to rule out other conditions, such as vaginal thrush or sexually transmitted infections.

Effective Treatments for Cystitis

• Home Treatments:
  • Urine Alkalizing Sachets: Products like Cymalon or Cystopurin can help neutralize urine acidity, reducing the burning sensation during urination. (Note: Recent evidence suggests these may not be as effective as once thought and could interact with some antibiotics.)
  • Over-the-Counter Painkillers: Medications such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can help ease discomfort and reduce inflammation.
• Antibiotics: For more persistent or severe cases, antibiotics like Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid) or Trimethoprim are commonly prescribed. These typically clear the infection within about three days. If symptoms do not improve after finishing a course of antibiotics, further consultation with a doctor is necessary.

Preventing Cystitis

• Hydration: Drink plenty of water to help flush bacteria out of your urinary system.
• Hygiene: Always wipe from front to back after using the toilet to prevent bacterial spread.
• After Intercourse: Urinate soon after sex to help clear out any bacteria.
• Avoid Irritants: Stay away from scented soaps, bubble baths, and certain feminine hygiene products that may irritate the urinary tract.
• Breathable Underwear: Choose cotton underwear and avoid tight synthetic clothes that trap moisture.

Order Your Treatment Online

If your symptoms do not improve within three days, worsen, or you experience severe signs like high fever, vomiting, or blood in the urine, it is crucial to see a doctor immediately. Men, children, and the elderly should also consult their GP if cystitis is suspected, as it may indicate a more serious condition.

You can conveniently order cystitis treatments online through Courierpharmacy. After completing a confidential medical consultation, one of our UK-registered prescribers will review your case to ensure the treatment is suitable for you. Approved orders are dispatched quickly, often with free next-day delivery.

Available treatments include:

• Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid)
• Trimethoprim

For more detailed information and trusted references, please visit our related blogs. After completing our online consultation form, you can purchase cystitis treatment directly from courierpharmacy.co.uk.