Cystitis - Prescription Treatments

About Cystitis

Cystitis, commonly known as bladder inflammation, is primarily caused by a bacterial infection and is part of a broader category known as urinary tract infections (UTIs). This condition is particularly common in women due to anatomical differences that make them more susceptible to bacterial infections in the urinary tract.

● Definition and Causes: Cystitis occurs when bacteria, usually Escherichia coli (E. coli), enter the urethra and migrate up to the bladder, leading to inflammation. Other non-infectious factors can also cause cystitis, such as drug reactions, radiation, and chemical sensitivities.
● Risk Factors: Factors that increase the risk of developing cystitis include sexual activity, certain types of birth control like diaphragms with spermicide, menopause, and anatomical abnormalities of the urinary tract. Other contributing factors can be poor hygiene practices, prolonged use of catheters, and certain chronic conditions like diabetes.

The treatment for cystitis generally involves a course of antibiotics to eliminate the bacterial infection. In cases of recurrent cystitis, preventive measures such as changing certain lifestyle habits, practising good hygiene, and possibly using topical oestrogen creams for postmenopausal women may be recommended. It is also advised to drink plenty of fluids and urinate frequently to help flush out bacteria from the bladder.

Symptoms

The symptoms of cystitis can range from mild to severe, affecting each individual differently. Here’s a concise list of common symptoms associated with cystitis:

● Frequent Urination: An increased urge to urinate, even when the bladder is not full.
● Painful Urination: Experiencing pain, burning, or discomfort during urination.
● Blood in Urine: Noticing blood in the urine, which may appear pink, red, or cola-coloured.
● Cloudy or Strong-Smelling Urine: The urine may appear cloudy or have a strong, unpleasant smell.
● Pelvic Discomfort: Feeling pressure or discomfort in the lower abdomen and pelvic area.
● Low-grade Fever: In some cases, a mild fever can occur, indicating the body is fighting an infection.

These symptoms can be bothersome and may significantly impact daily activities. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment to prevent complications.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing cystitis, a common urinary tract infection, involves several steps and tests that healthcare professionals may use to accurately assess the condition:

● Medical History and Symptoms Review: Initially, a healthcare provider will discuss your symptoms and medical history. This discussion helps to rule out other potential causes of your symptoms.
● Urine Tests: The most common diagnostic test for cystitis is a urinalysis, which checks for the presence of white blood cells, red blood cells, and bacteria in your urine. A urine culture may also be conducted to identify the specific type of bacteria causing the infection, which is crucial for choosing the appropriate treatment.
● Physical Examination: In some cases, especially if complications are suspected or if infections are recurrent, a physical examination may be conducted. For women, this might include a pelvic exam to check for any signs of disease or inflammation in the genital area.
● Cystoscopy: For more complicated or recurrent cases of cystitis, a cystoscopy might be performed. This involves using a cystoscope (a thin tube with a camera and light) to look inside the bladder and urethra to identify any abnormalities or infections.
● Imaging Tests: Occasionally, imaging tests like an ultrasound or a CT scan may be recommended to get a detailed view of the urinary tract, especially if there are recurring infections or unusual symptoms that might indicate more serious conditions such as kidney stones or tumours.

These diagnostic steps help ensure that the treatment plan is appropriately tailored to the specific type of cystitis, maximising the effectiveness of the treatment and reducing the likelihood of recurrence.

Treatments

Prescription medications play a crucial role in treating cystitis by targeting the bacteria responsible for the infection. Commonly prescribed antibiotics for cystitis include Nitrofurantoin and Trimethoprim, which are effective against the typical bacteria found in urinary tract infections, predominantly Escherichia coli (E. coli). These medications work by either killing the bacteria or inhibiting their growth, thereby alleviating symptoms and preventing complications such as kidney infections.

Some products that we sell:

● Nitrofurantoin Mercury Pharma 100mg (6 Capsules): This medication is used to treat infections of the urinary tract. It is particularly effective because it concentrates directly in the urine, making it highly effective against bacteria in the bladder.
● Trimethoprim 200mg Antibiotic Tablets: Often prescribed for urinary tract infections, Trimethoprim stops bacteria from producing essential proteins they need to reproduce. This treatment can quickly reduce symptoms of cystitis.

These medications are generally prescribed for short courses, typically around three to seven days, depending on the severity of the infection. It’s crucial to complete the prescribed course of antibiotics to fully clear the infection and avoid recurrence.

Prevention Strategies

To help prevent cystitis and reduce the risk of urinary tract infections, here are several effective strategies:

● Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, to help flush bacteria from the urinary tract before an infection can start.
● Cranberry Juice: Although not conclusively proven, consuming cranberry juice may help prevent UTIs by making the urine more acidic and less hospitable to bacteria.
● Proper Hygiene: Always wipe from front to back after using the restroom to prevent bacteria from spreading from the anus to the urethra.
● Urinate After Intercourse: Urinating soon after sexual intercourse helps flush out bacteria that may have entered the urinary tract.
● Avoid Irritants: Steer clear of products that can irritate the bladder, such as scented soaps, bubble baths, and spermicidal jelly.
● Clothing Choices: Wear cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothing to keep the area around the urethra dry, reducing the risk of bacteria growth.

These measures are particularly important for those who experience frequent infections or who are at increased risk due to factors like sexual activity, certain types of birth control, or menopause.

Related Reading

For more detailed insights on cystitis and other urinary tract conditions, as well as a wide range of health-related topics, make sure to visit our blog.