Acute
Cystitis
See also:
Bladder Infection
What
is it?
Acute
cystitis is an infection of the bladder that
occurs suddenly and follows a short, but severe
course.
Who
gets it?
Acute
cystitis is most often seen in women.
Although less common, it can also occur in men.
What
causes it?
Acute
cystitis is caused by bacteria that are normally
present in your digestive system and on the skin
around the rectum and vagina. The bacteria can
pass through the urethra and up into the bladder.
This can occur during sexual intercourse, because
of poor personal hygiene, or due to a defect in
which the urethra is shorter than normal. Cystitis
can also be caused by anything that blocks the
flow of urine or makes it difficult for the
bladder to empty completely, such as pregnancy or,
in men, an enlarged prostate, tumor, or kidney
stones. Acute cystitis in children is usually
caused by urinary tract abnormalities. A virus can
also cause cystitis, but this form is rare in
adults.
What
are the symptoms?
The
symptoms of acute cystitis can include a strong
persistent urge to urinate, a burning sensation
when urinating, passing frequent, small amounts of
urine, pain in the lower part of the abdomen or
lower back, blood in the urine (hematuria),
cloudy, strong-smelling urine, fever, and chills.
The inflamed bladder may spasm, causing pain.
How is
it diagnosed?
To
diagnose acute cystitis, your doctor will look at
your medical history, ask about your symptoms, and
perform a physical exam that includes pressing on
your abdomen to check for tenderness. If acute
cystitis is suspected, your physician will ask for
a urine sample to determine if bacteria are
present in your urine. If you have repeated
infections, your doctor may order additional tests
such as an ultrasound study of your abdomen;
intravenous pyelography (IVP), which is an x-ray
of the urinary tract; or a cystoscopy, which
involves inserting a tube into the urethra for a
close view of the urethra and bladder.
What
is the treatment?
To
treat acute cystitis, your doctor will prescribe
antibiotics to fight the infection and will
recommend drinking plenty of fluids to help your
body wash away the bacteria. He or she may
prescribe pain medication to reduce bladder
spasms. Surgery may be necessary to repair
structural abnormalities.
Self-care tips
You can
prevent acute cystitis by making sure you always
empty your bladder completely when you go to the
bathroom. Drink plenty of liquids, especially
water. Cranberry juice may have infection-fighting
properties. Urinate frequently, and avoid holding
your urine for a long time after you feel the urge
to go. Wipe from front to back after a bowel
movement to prevent bacteria in the anal region
from spreading to the vagina and urethra. If you
are sexually active, empty your bladder as soon as
possible after intercourse, wash your genital area
to remove any bacteria that could travel up the
urethra, and drink a full glass of water to help
flush bacteria.
This information has been designed as a comprehensive and quick reference
guide written by our health care reviewers. The health information written
by our authors is intended to be a supplement to the care provided by your
physician. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for
professional medical advice.
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