Cystitis is common in women, but it is less common and a potentially more serious condition for men. For men the cause can be an underlying bladder or prostate infection, an obstruction or tumour, or an enlarged prostate. Cystitis usually begins when bacteria enter the urinary tract through the urethra, the tube through which urine exits your body. Less commonly, bacteria can spread to the bladder from an infection in another part of the body. The usual treatment for cystitis is antibiotics. You can take a number of steps to help prevent cystitis and other UTIs.



Causes of Cystitis

The common Causes of Cystitis :

Radiation, eg after radiotherapy to other organs in the pelvis.

Trauma as in "Honeymoon Cystitis" following unaccustomed and rather prolonged or vigorous sexual activity.

Other types of infection may inflame the bladder.

The main cause of cystitis (and other urinary tract infections) is bacteria known as coliform bacteria, which are a common occupant of the bowel.

Other bacteria may be involved.

Symptoms of Cystitis

Some Symptoms of Cystitis :

Low-grade fever.

Frequency of passing water .

A feeling of pressure in the lower abdomen.

Burning or pain on passing water.

Cloudy urine .

Blood in the urine (hematuria) .

Smelly urine.

Passing cloudy or strong-smelling urine.

Treatment of Cystitis

If the symptoms are any more than transient, you should contact your doctor, when next able to, regarding the possibility of antibiotics.

For similar reasons the folklore remedy is barley water or, these days, cranberry juice.

The best first aid treatment is to drink, drink .

There is no evidence that this is helpful, although drinking at least two litres of fresh water per day is generally good for your health. '

To some extent alkalising the urine helps to eradicate the germs and also soothe the bladder. You can try using bicarbonate of soda, 5ml (1 tea spoon) in half a glass of water, two or three times a day or one of the over the counter cystitis remedies.

Some doctors recommend that you drink lots of water to help flush out the infection, to dilute the urine and reduce the burning sensation.

Taking painkillers relieves pain.