Acute Cystitis: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of acute cystitis?

Acute cystitis, often referred to as a bladder infection or a urinary tract infection (UTI), is characterized by the following symptoms:

1. Frequent Urination: An increased need to urinate, often producing only small amounts of urine.
2. Urgency: A strong, persistent urge to urinate.
3. Dysuria: Pain or burning sensation during urination.
4. Hematuria: Presence of blood in the urine, which can appear pink, red, or cola-colored.
5. Cloudy Urine: Urine may appear cloudy.
6. Strong-Smelling Urine: Urine with a strong, unpleasant odor.
7. Lower Abdominal Pain: Discomfort or a feeling of pressure in the pelvic area.
8. Mild Fever: A low-grade fever may sometimes be present.
9. General Malaise: Feeling of being unwell or fatigued.

In more severe cases or if the infection spreads to the kidneys, additional symptoms might include:

• High Fever: A fever above 101°F (38.3°C).
• Flank Pain: Pain in the back or sides.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Feeling sick to the stomach and potentially vomiting.

If you experience symptoms of acute cystitis, it is important to seek medical attention for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

What are the causes of acute cystitis?

Acute cystitis is usually caused by a bacterial infection. Here are the common causes and contributing factors:

1. Bacterial Infection: The most common cause is a bacterial infection, particularly by Escherichia coli (E. coli), which normally lives in the gastrointestinal tract. Other bacteria, such as Staphylococcus saprophyticus, can also cause cystitis.
2. Sexual Activity: Sexual intercourse can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract, leading to infection. This is sometimes referred to as “honeymoon cystitis.”
3. Poor Hygiene: Improper wiping (back to front) can transfer bacteria from the anus to the urethra.
4. Urinary Catheters: Use of a catheter to drain urine can introduce bacteria into the bladder.
5. Certain Types of Birth Control: Diaphragms and spermicides can increase the risk of bacterial infection.
6. Menopause: Post-menopausal women may have a higher risk due to changes in the urinary tract and a decrease in estrogen levels, which can affect the protective lining of the bladder.
7. Urinary Tract Abnormalities: Structural abnormalities in the urinary tract can impede the normal flow of urine and increase the risk of infection.
8. Weakened Immune System: Conditions that impair the immune system, such as diabetes, can increase susceptibility to infections.
9. Incomplete Bladder Emptying: Conditions that prevent complete emptying of the bladder, such as an enlarged prostate in men, can lead to bacterial growth.
10. Use of Spermicides: Spermicides can irritate the vaginal area and disrupt the normal bacterial flora, making infections more likely.
11. Tight or Non-Breathable Clothing: Wearing tight-fitting clothing or non-breathable materials can create a moist environment that promotes bacterial growth.

Understanding these causes can help in taking preventive measures to reduce the risk of acute cystitis.

What is the treatment for acute cystitis?

The treatment for acute cystitis typically involves antibiotics to eradicate the bacterial infection. However, the specific treatment plan may vary depending on factors such as the severity of symptoms, the type of bacteria causing the infection, and the patient’s medical history. Here’s an overview of the treatment options:

1. Antibiotics: The most common treatment for acute cystitis is a course of antibiotics. The choice of antibiotic and duration of treatment may vary depending on factors such as local antibiotic resistance patterns and the patient’s health status. Commonly prescribed antibiotics for cystitis include trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX), nitrofurantoin, fosfomycin, and fluoroquinolones.
2. Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen may be recommended to alleviate discomfort, pain, or fever associated with cystitis. Phenazopyridine, which helps to numb the bladder and urethra, can also provide relief from urinary pain and urgency. However, it is not a substitute for antibiotics and should only be used for short-term relief as directed by a healthcare professional.
3. Increased Fluid Intake: Drinking plenty of water can help to flush bacteria out of the urinary tract and reduce symptoms. Avoiding caffeine and alcohol, which can irritate the bladder, may also be beneficial.
4. Urinary Alkalinizers: In some cases, urinary alkalinizers such as potassium citrate may be prescribed to help reduce the acidity of urine, which can alleviate burning sensations during urination.
5. Avoidance of Irritants: Patients may be advised to avoid certain irritants such as caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, and artificial sweeteners, which can exacerbate symptoms.
6. Follow-Up: It’s essential to follow up with a healthcare provider to ensure that the infection has been effectively treated and to address any lingering symptoms or complications. In some cases, further diagnostic tests or treatments may be necessary.
7. Preventive Measures: To reduce the risk of recurrent cystitis, patients may be advised to practice good hygiene, drink plenty of fluids, urinate frequently, and avoid potentially irritating substances.

It’s important for individuals with symptoms of acute cystitis to seek prompt medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment. Untreated infections can lead to complications such as recurrent infections, kidney damage, or systemic infection.

How is acute cystitis different from a urinary tract infection?

Acute cystitis and urinary tract infection (UTI) are often used interchangeably, but there are some differences between the two terms:

1. Acute Cystitis: Cystitis specifically refers to inflammation of the bladder. Acute cystitis is a type of UTI that specifically affects the bladder. It is characterized by symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency, dysuria (painful urination), and lower abdominal discomfort.
2. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): UTI is a broader term that encompasses infections anywhere in the urinary tract, including the bladder (cystitis), urethra (urethritis), ureters, and kidneys (pyelonephritis). While acute cystitis is a type of UTI, not all UTIs necessarily involve the bladder.
3. Symptoms: The symptoms of acute cystitis and other types of UTIs may overlap, but the specific symptoms can vary depending on the location and severity of the infection. For example, urethritis may present with symptoms such as urethral discharge or itching, while pyelonephritis (kidney infection) may cause symptoms such as flank pain, fever, and nausea.
4. Risk Factors: The risk factors for acute cystitis and UTIs in general are similar and include factors such as female gender (due to shorter urethra), sexual activity, urinary tract abnormalities, urinary catheter use, and certain medical conditions (e.g., diabetes, kidney stones) that increase susceptibility to infections.
5. Treatment: The treatment for acute cystitis and other types of UTIs typically involves antibiotics to eradicate the bacterial infection. The choice of antibiotic and duration of treatment may vary depending on factors such as the severity of symptoms, the type of bacteria causing the infection, and the patient’s medical history.

In summary, acute cystitis is a type of UTI that specifically affects the bladder, but UTI is a broader term that can refer to infections anywhere in the urinary tract. Both conditions share similar risk factors and treatment approaches, but the specific symptoms and location of the infection may vary.