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Cystitis

What is cystitis?

Cystitis is an inflamed bladder that is, more often than not, the result of an infection. It can also be caused by either irritation or by damage (for example from friction during sex).

What are the symptoms of cystitis?

Adults and children can both get cystitis, and the symptoms can be different for each.

Symptoms of cystitis in men and women may include:

• Burning, stinging or pain during urination.
• The need to urinate often and urgently but then pass only small amounts of urine. 
• Urine that is cloudy or dark in colour, or has a strong smell.
• Urine that contains blood.
• Pain in the lower abdomen, in the stomach or in the lower back.
• Feeling weak, unwell or feverish.

Symptoms of cystitis in children may include:

• Weakness
• Irritability 
• Pain when urinating
• Vomiting
• Reduced appetite

Causes of cystitis

Cystitis in women

Cystitis is a more common compliant in women because they have a short urethra. The opening of their urethra is located close to the anus, which means that it is easy for bacteria from the rectum to reach the bladder and cause an infection. 

Most women will have cystitis on at least one occasion during their lifetime and one in five will get it again. It may occur at any age, but it is more common in pregnant women, in sexually active women and in post-menopausal women.

Cystitis in men

Cystitis is less common in men but can more serious because it could indicate a prostate infection or an obstruction in the urinary tract, caused by a either a tumour or an enlarged prostate.

Sexually active gay men are more likely to get cystitis than heterosexual men.

Outlook

Mild cystitis will usually clear up within four to nine days. Drink plenty of water and take painkillers (paracetamol or ibuprofen). Severe cystitis may need to be treated with antibiotics.

Men and children should always see their doctor if they are having cystitis symptoms.

Women should always see their doctor the first time they have cystitis symptoms. They should also go back to their GP if the condition reoccurs more than three times in a year.