The purpose of this blog post is to provide a straightforward overview of acute cystitis, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
Escherichia coli (E. coli) is the most common cause of acute cystitis. It is usually found in the gastrointestinal tract and enters the urinary tract through the urethra. Acute cystitis can also be caused by bacteria like Klebsiella, Proteus, and Staphylococcus saprophyticus. Risk factors include:
As a result of their shorter urethra, women are more prone to acute cystitis.
Sexual activity can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract, increasing infection risk.
Condition such as kidney stones or an enlarged prostate can obstruct urine flow, allowing bacteria to multiply.
Acute cystitis is more likely to develop in people who use urinary catheters for medical reasons.
Acute cystitis may cause the following symptoms:
Urination more often than usual, even if the bladder is not full.
Dysuria is characterized by pain or burning sensations during urination.
A sudden, strong urge to urinate that cannot be postponed.
Discomfort in the lower abdomen: Pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen.
The urine may appear cloudy or bloody.
Urine with a strong, unpleasant smell: Urine may have a strong, unpleasant smell.
Acute cystitis is often accompanied by fatigue, weakness, or malaise.
Medical history, physical examination, and urine tests are typically used to diagnose acute cystitis, which includes:
An examination of a urine sample for the presence of white blood cells, red blood cells, bacteria, or other abnormalities.
Identifying the specific bacteria causing an infection and determining the most effective antibiotic treatment through urine culture.
It is sometimes necessary to perform a cystoscopy in order to visually inspect the bladder and urinary tract for abnormalities or signs of infection.
Acute cystitis is usually treated with antibiotics to eradicate the bacterial infection. Common antibiotics prescribed for acute cystitis include:
TMP/SMX (trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole)
The nitrofurantoin
The antibiotic cephalexin
The drug fosfomycin
Besides antibiotics, other measures may be used to alleviate symptoms and promote healing, such as:
Increasing fluid intake can help flush bacteria from the urinary tract.
During urination, over-the-counter medications like phenazopyridine can relieve pain and discomfort.
Caffeine, alcohol, and acidic foods and beverages may irritate the bladder.
Acute cystitis can be prevented by taking steps to reduce the risk of urinary tract infections, such as:
Keep the genital area clean and dry by wiping from front to back after using the toilet.
Regularly emptying the bladder can help flush bacteria from the urinary tract.
After sex, urinate to remove any bacteria that may have entered your urinary tract.
Drinking plenty of fluids can help dilute urine and flush out bacteria in the urinary tract.
