Cystitis: Everything You Need to Know

Cystitis is a common ailment that affects the urinary tract. This article answers some questions you may have about this condition and the treatment your doctor may provide to alleviate the symptoms. Read on to discover everything you need to know.

What are the symptoms of cystitis? 

When you have an infection in your kidneys, ureters, or bladder, you may experience symptoms including:

• Painful or burning sensations when you pee 
• Needing to pee than usual 
• Pain in your lower tummy (abdomen) 
• Cloudy urine

What causes cystitis? 

Cystitis occurs when bacteria that enter the urethra. This happens close to the opening, where you pass urine from your body. The bacteria multiply and cause inflammation.

What complications can cystitis cause?

If you have cystitis again after you've had it before, or if it's more severe, then you should monitor your symptoms. Things to look out for include: 

• Blood in your urine 
• Needing to pee urgently or often 
• Fever

You should seek medical help straight away if you get any of these symptoms after being diagnosed with cystitis because they might mean that the infection has spread further up into your body, which can lead to other complications.

How is cystitis diagnosed?

Your GP will usually diagnose cystitis by asking questions about the symptoms you have and by examining your lower tummy. However, in some cases where it's difficult to tell whether you have cystitis or another problem with your kidneys, they might recommend tests such as urine culture, which involves getting a sample of your pee so it can be sent to a lab and checked for bacteria.

How will my doctor treat cystitis?

If your doctor thinks you have cystitis, they may be able to prescribe antibiotics for it. These can stop the infection and so relieve your symptoms. If you have not been prescribed antibiotics but seem to need them, make sure you mention this when you next see your doctor - if necessary, go back again. However, taking certain painkillers containing ibuprofen could help ease some of your symptoms if cystitis isn't too severe. You should always take medicines precisely as described in the patient information leaflet that comes with them unless your doctor or pharmacist says otherwise.

If you would like to find out more about this subject, you should book an appointment with a GP today. They will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

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