Usually caused by a bladder infection, cystitis is inflammation of the bladder. A urine infection (UTI) is a common type of illness, particularly in women, and is generally not a health threat. In most cases, mild UTIs will resolve by themselves after a few days.
Cystitis can occur frequently in some individuals, and may require long-term or regular treatment. In some cases, cystitis can also lead to a kidney infection. If your symptoms don’t improve, it’s a good idea to get professional assistance. Visit farmaciauno.it for more information.
Cystitis symptoms and signs
Cystitis is characterized by the following symptoms:
- You experience burning, stinging or pain when you urinate
- Peeing more frequently or urgently than usual
- The urine is dark, cloudy or smells strongly
- You feel pain in your stomach
- Sick, tired, achy, and generally unwell
The symptoms of fever, weakness, irritability, reduced appetite, and vomiting in young children include high temperatures (fever) of 38C (100.4F) or above.
Getting professional advice when necessary
In case you have symptoms of cystitis or a urinary infection, consult your pharmacist. Those who have previously experienced cystitis don’t always need to see their GP if the condition returns, as mild cases usually resolve on their own. Below are self-help measures you can try, or ask your pharmacist for guidance.
Seeing your GP is recommended if:
- It takes more than a few days for your symptoms to improve
- Cystitis frequently occurs in your body
- There is blood in your urine, or you have severe symptoms
- Symptoms of cystitis accompany your pregnancy
- Cystitis is affecting you as a man
- There are symptoms of cystitis in your child
When you describe your symptoms to your doctor, they should be able to diagnose the condition. A urine sample may be tested for bacteria to ensure the diagnosis is correct.
Why does cystitis occur?
It is thought that most cases are caused by bacteria living harmlessly in the bowel or on the skin entering the bladder through the urethra (needle that drains urine from your body).
This happens for a variety of reasons but is usually the result of:
- You should wipe your bottom after you use the restroom. Especially if you wipe backwards
- The insertion of a tampon or a catheter to drain the bladder (a thin tube inserted through the urethra)
- Contraception through diaphragms
Due to their longer urethras and closer anus (back passage), women may develop cystitis more frequently than men, which means bacteria are more likely to enter the bladder.
Treating cystitis
Pharmacy First Scotland offers treatment for cystitis if you see your pharmacist with symptoms. The pharmacist may prescribe antibiotics if you have a mild urine infection and are between 16 and 65 years old. The antibiotics should start working in one to two days.
Symptoms of cystitis can be treated at home if you’ve already had cystitis in the past and do not feel you need to see your pharmacist or doctor.
There is little evidence to suggest these products are highly effective, but some people find they’re helpful in reducing urine acidity.
You can ask your GP for an antibiotic prescription if you have frequent symptoms of cystitis so you can take it to the pharmacy whenever your symptoms start, without first seeing your GP. Taking high doses of antibiotics continuously over several months may also be prescribed by your doctor.
