Cystitis is the inflammation of the bladder and is usually due to an infection in the urine. It is a common condition in women and it normally goes away without much need of treatment or complications. Women are more likely to have this condition than men because the urethra in women is shorter and closer to the anus, so the infection is more likely to affect women.
The urinary system consists of bladder, kidneys, ureters and urethra. They all help to remove the waste from our body. Mostly the infection is caused by bacteria and is known as a urinary tract infection. This infection can cause discomfort and pain and go on to become a serious condition if it spreads to the kidney. There are different kinds of cystitis in women namely bacterial cystitis, non infectious cystitis, eosinophilic cystitis and hemorrhagic cystitis.
The causes of cystitis in women can be the following:
1. Bacterial Cystitis: This occurs when the bacteria enters the urinary tract and starts to multiply. The urine has anti bacterial properties but certain factors allow the bacteria to multiply and spread. Such infections may occur in women due to sexual activities. The female genital area often has bacteria that can cause cystitis, do it is possible to happen in sexually inactive girls too. The bacteria E.coli is the most common bacteria which causes cystitis in women. This condition may also be a hospital acquired infection in which urinary catheters are used.
2. Noninfectious Cystitis: Many non infectious factors can also cause cystitis. The types of noninfectious cystitis are: Drug induced cystitis in which certain medications cause inflammation of the bladder. Interstitial cystitis is in which there is a condition of chronic bladder inflammation. Foreign body cystitis is in which long term usage of catheters can cause infections, inflammation and tissue damage. Radiation cystitis is inflammation in bladder due to radiation treatment. Chemical cystitis is when certain chemicals cause allergic reaction within the bladder which causes inflammation. Other causes are pelvic inflammatory disorders, endometriosis, Crohn’s disease and cancers.
3. Hemorrhage Cystitis: This may result as a side effect of cyclophosphamide therapy.
4. Eosinaophilic Cystitis: This is rare and the exact cause is unknown. It may be triggered by certain medications.
Symptoms - The symptoms of Cystitis in women are:
1. Burning sensation while passing urine or frequent urination.
2. Persistent and strong urge to urinate frequently.
3. Hematuria or passing of blood in urine.
4. Strong odor in urine or cloudy urine.
5. Pressure in the lower abdomen and pelvic region discomfort.
The treatment for cystitis in women depends on the cause. While cystitis caused by bacteria is usually cured by giving antibiotics, the treatment of non infectious cystitis depends on the factor which has caused it.
1. Treatment for Bacterial Cystitis: Anti biotic treatments are given in this case of bacterial infection. The duration of the antibiotics course may depend on the severity of the infection.
2. Treatment for Non infectious Cystitis: One has to avoid the usage of chemicals in baths and perfumed products near your genital area which can irritate and cause allergic reactions. In some cases medications and hydration is given to flush out the toxins irritating the bladder.
3. Nerve Stimulation: In some cases nerve stimulation may be done which is using electrical pulse to eliminate pain.
4. Sitz Bath: A sitz bath can bring some relief and lessen the symptoms.
5. Heat Pad: A heat pad over the lower abdomen may reduce the discomfort and pressure.
6. Water: Intake of water and other fluids is beneficial, however, avoid fizz drinks and alcohol.
These treatments for cystitis in women may help one in reducing the symptoms and getting relief.
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