Overview
Symptoms
Cystitis is a common type of urinary tract infection (UTI) caused by E.Coli bacteria which causes inflammation of the bladder lining.
- Pain or burning when you pass water
- Needing to pass water frequently
- Urine that’s dark, cloudy, strong smelling or contains blood
- Pelvic discomfort
- Low grade fever
Causes
Most cases are thought to occur when bacteria that live harmlessly in the bowel or on the skin get into the bladder through the tube that carries urine out of your body (urethra). Women may get cystitis more often than men because their anus is closer to their urethra and their urethra is much shorter allowing bacteria to get into the bladder more easily.
Other causes are a reaction to certain drugs, radiation therapy or irritants such as feminine hygiene spray, spermicidal jellies or long-term use of a catheter.
Treatments
- Take paracetamol to reduce the discomfort
- Drink plenty of water
- Hold a hot water bottle on your tummy or between your thighs
- Avoid having sex
- Take a preparation containing potassium or sodium citrate such as Cystospurin or Cymalon to reduce the acidity of the urine
See your GP if you or your child have symptoms of cystitis for the first time as the symptoms can be similar to several other conditions. You should also see your GP is your symptoms do not clear up. If a diagnosis is confirmed as being a bacterial infection, you will usually be prescribed antibiotics.