How Do You Get Cystitis?

Cystitis is an infection of the bladder, part of the lower urinary tract. It happens when bacteria that normally live harmlessly on the skin or in the bowel enter the urethra and bladder and cause it to become irritated and inflamed. It can affect anyone, regardless of age or sex, but is more common in females because they have shorter urethras. It can also be more serious in older people because their kidneys may be less able to fight off infections.

The most common symptoms of cystitis are pain or pressure in the lower belly (belly button) and a feeling that you need to urinate frequently, especially after you’ve already emptied your bladder. Some people also have a burning sensation when they pee or a strong smell to their urine. Blood in the urine is rare but can occur. In young children, bed-wetting during the day can be a sign of cystitis, but this is not always the case.

How do you get Cystitis?

There are several things that can cause cystitis, including having an enlarged prostate gland, certain medicines, some infections or problems with the way your body makes urine. However, cystitis most often occurs when you have a urinary tract infection (UTI) and the infection travels from the urethra to the bladder. UTIs can be caused by bacteria from the outside or by bacteria that grow in the bladder because of a blocked urethra, for example, after an injury or surgery.

You can get cystitis if you have a weak immune system due to illness or treatment for another condition, or if you use the same toilet seats repeatedly, as this can increase your risk of getting an infection. It’s important to use a different toilet seat each time you go to the bathroom and wash your hands with soap, as well as to avoid drinking too much alcohol because it can make urine more acidic and lead to an infection. You should also wipe yourself from front to back after going to the toilet and only use plain toilet paper. Coloured or perfumed toilet papers and wipes can irritate your skin.

It’s possible to get cystitis without having a urinary tract infection, but it’s best to see your GP for advice if you have these symptoms, as they may be a sign of an infection. Your GP will ask you about your symptoms and do a physical examination. They may also order a urinalysis and a urine culture to find out what bacteria are causing your cystitis.

If you have cystitis, your GP will prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection. Usually, you’ll take them for three days or more, depending on what type of antibiotic you have been given. You should take the pills as prescribed, even if you’re starting to feel better. This will help ensure that the infection is completely cleared out of your body.

If you have chronic recurrent cystitis, your doctor may suggest non-surgical treatments like a change in diet or lifestyle, heat and exercise therapy, and acupuncture. Over-the-counter painkillers such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen can also reduce the pain and discomfort.

Should you wish to discuss your condition with an experienced Australian trained Doctor or expert in this area. Please book in for an online and Telehealth consultation. Phenix Health is always available when you need us 24/7. Contact bookings@phenixhealth.com.au.