Cystitis in women

Cystitis is one of the urological pathologies that most often affect the female body. In fact, almost every female representative encounters it at least once in her life. The disease significantly reduces the quality of life, introducing discomfort and unpleasant sensations. That is why it is necessary to get rid of it as soon as possible.

The disease is very insidious in psycho-emotional terms. Its appearance leads to the development of certain fears and complexes, and also increases the feeling of anxiety and irritability against the backdrop of the need to frequently visit the restroom and give up some familiar things.

What to do if signs of illness appear? Give up trying to eliminate them yourself, or wait for the symptoms to go away on their own. It is better to consult a doctor immediately. Make an appointment with a specialist who will determine the true nature of the problem that has arisen and make the correct diagnosis, as well as prescribe effective treatment. Doctors conduct a comprehensive assessment of the nature of the pathology and the prognosis of therapy, carry out diagnostics using modern methods and using high-tech equipment.

What is female cystitis

Pathology refers to inflammation in acute or chronic form, occurring in the tissues of the bladder (UB) and under the influence of a fungal or bacterial infection. However, a non-bacterial type of pathology is also known.

Cystitis in women is a frequently recurring problem. According to statistics, in half of all cases of the disease there is a repeated visit to a specialist within a year. As a rule, it is diagnosed in patients of childbearing age. Refusal to treat the acute form of the disease causes its transition to the chronic stage. The latter is characterized by the spread of pathogenic microorganisms to other organs of the genitourinary system, as well as an exacerbation of symptoms that occurs periodically.

The course of the disease over a long period of time without treatment causes complications, which include:

• Formation of adhesions in the MP.
• Malfunctions of the urinary system.
• Kidney failure.
• Bleeding and the appearance of ulcers on the walls of the bladder.
• Benign and malignant neoplasms.

Reasons for appearance

Most often, inflammation of the bladder lining occurs due to fungi or bacteria entering it. The threat of infection also increases due to the fact that the female urethra is short and wide, allowing pathogenic organisms to easily enter the urinary tract if intimate hygiene rules are not followed or sexually transmitted pathologies develop.

The main factors that provoke the appearance of inflammation in the bladder of the female body are:

• Infections, including those transmitted through unprotected sex. In this case, the entry of pathogenic microorganisms has an ascending nature. They first enter the vagina and urethra.
• Special manipulations and surgical interventions. For example, catheterization of bladder over a long period of time significantly increases the likelihood of developing inflammatory processes.
• The use of certain detergents and care products for intimate hygiene, the substances in which may cause an aggressive reaction in the body.
• Exposure to low temperatures due to decreased immune abilities. It is worth understanding that simply being in the cold cannot cause pathology. Such stay becomes a provocateur for the development of cystitis in women with low immunity.

It is also necessary to take into account provoking factors, including:

• Chronic infection of any location.
• Gynecological diseases of an inflammatory nature suffered in the recent past.
• Disruptions in the hormonal system.
• Failure to comply with personal hygiene rules.
• Chaotic intimate life.
• Obesity.
• Long-term use of certain medications, which led to a decrease in the body’s protective properties.
• Other pathologies, including diabetes mellitus, as well as the presence of foci of chronic infections in the body.

Symptoms of cystitis in women

The symptoms of the disease are very diverse, which is due to the variability of its forms. The main symptoms for all forms of cystitis are described below:

• The appearance of a feeling of discomfort and distension in the area where the MP is located.
• A more frequent urge to urinate than usual, which has nothing to do with the volume of fluid consumed.
• Pain in the lower abdomen.
• Impaired urinary outflow, which is expressed in a small volume of urine excreted with a constantly remaining feeling of fullness of the bladder.
• A change in the color of urine to brown or reddish, as well as a sharp odor that differs from normal.
• Unpleasant sensations during the process of emptying the bladder, manifested in pain and burning.
• Bloating.
• False urge to defecate.
• Transfer of painful sensations to other areas of the pelvis.
• Blood or mucous inclusions in urine, its turbidity.
• Sleep disturbance.

In addition, signs of cystitis in women include chills, increased sweating, weakness and a slight increase in body temperature. In some cases, urinary incontinence is possible, caused by pathological damage to the muscular layer of the bladder.

The chronic form of the disease is characterized by mild symptoms, and its presence can only be indicated by an excessively frequent urge to urinate. Signs of chronic pathology become more intense during exacerbations.

Diagnosis of cystitis

The first signs of pathology should be a reason to make an appointment with a specialist. During the appointment, a competent urologist will talk with the patient about existing complaints about the condition, and will also analyze the medical history in order to identify risk factors for the disease. In some cases, examination of the external genital organs allows us to determine what could be the source of the inflammatory process. In addition, there are laboratory and instrumental diagnostics carried out to clarify the reasons that caused the unpleasant symptoms.

Before proceeding to treatment of cystitis in women, it is necessary to confirm the diagnosis. To do this, the following manipulations are carried out:

• Collection of urine for analysis of its cellular and biological composition. It is important to explain to the patient the basic rules for preparing and directly collecting urine.
• General blood test from a vein. It is carried out to check the presence or absence of other diseases and assess the general condition.
• Bacterial culture of urine, which allows you to isolate the pathogen using special media. In addition, the technique is aimed at determining the sensitivity of microorganisms to certain drugs, which makes it possible to select an effective medicine for cystitis in women.
• Cystoscopy, which involves examining the bladder mucosa by inserting a thin tube with a camera at the end through the urethra. The picture is displayed on the monitor, and the doctor has the opportunity to assess the condition of the tissues. Tissue samples may be taken for further histological examination.
• Ultrasound examination of the kidneys and bladder.

Treatment of cystitis

The treatment program is prescribed by a doctor and determined by the identified provocateurs of the development of the inflammatory process. Competent therapy should be aimed at combating pathogens and other factors that are the cause of the appearance of unpleasant symptoms.

In the case of an acute course of the disease, the specialist prescribes antimicrobial drugs even before receiving the results of the examination. This is necessary in order to minimize the risk of complications. Next, the therapeutic course may be adjusted in order to achieve the best results. In any case, the decision on how to treat cystitis in women should be made by a qualified doctor.

Antibiotics

Medicines in this group have the ability to destroy pathogens, as well as stop the infection to prevent its spread to other organs. In the early stages of treatment of acute disease, broad-spectrum antibiotics are prescribed, which are effective against gram-negative bacteria. If the results of the examination show that the isolated microorganisms are not sensitive to these drugs, it is necessary to adjust the therapy. In the case of a chronic disease, medications are prescribed after receiving diagnostic results.

The duration of antibiotic treatment for cystitis in women ranges from three to fourteen days. During this time you need to see a doctor.

Diuretics

This group includes drugs that have a diuretic effect. Their intake increases the outflow of urine, which leads to the washing out of pathogenic flora from the body, as well as a decrease in the level of irritating substances. Diuretics are prescribed relatively rarely as a tool to combat the disease. Basically, experts give preference to herbal options.

Antispasmodics

Drugs in this group have also shown their effectiveness in solving such urological problems as cystitis in women. Taking antispasmodics in tablet form does not have a targeted effect in the bladder area. In this case, there is a systemic effect at the level of all vessels and organs.

There is an opinion that the prescription of drugs from this group as part of the treatment of the disease is unjustified. This is due to their effect on the muscle layer of the bladder, while the pathology is an inflammation of its mucous membrane, which has nothing to do with the muscles.

Vitamin preparations

Vitamins are taken during the rehabilitation period in order to restore and maintain the body’s immune functions. In addition, they can be prescribed as a component of the main treatment and for preventive purposes.

The choice in favor of certain vitamin preparations, as well as their dosage, is based on a number of aspects, including the general condition and well-being of the patient, the form of the inflammatory process, etc. Cystitis requires the use of vitamins, which:

• help strengthen local immunity;
• stimulate the functioning of the bladder;
• accelerate the process of tissue regeneration.

All of the above functions work well:

• Multivitamins containing at least two components.
• Vitamin complexes indicated for cystitis in women. Contains useful elements and minerals. Promotes restoration and overall strengthening of the body.
• Monovitamins prescribed for severe immunodeficiency and chronic disease, characterized by frequent exacerbations.

It is important to remember that self-prescription of vitamin preparations, suppositories, ointments or tablets for cystitis in women is strictly prohibited. The choice of one or another medication and determination of its optimal dosage, as well as the frequency of administration and duration of the treatment course is determined only by the doctor.

Features of the diet for cystitis

The effectiveness of treatment largely depends on the diet that the woman follows during treatment. It is recommended to follow certain rules regarding the consumption of certain foods and drinks throughout the entire therapeutic course. These rules mean:

• Exclusion of spices, marinades, smoked meats and pickles. You should also avoid sweets and fried foods. You should strive to reduce your salt intake as much as possible. Alcoholic and carbonated drinks, as well as tea and coffee should be prohibited.
• Reduce consumption of fish, poultry and fatty meats.
• Minimizing the consumption of dairy and fermented milk products. It is allowed to consume unsalted and low-fat cheeses, low-fat yogurt and cottage cheese, and milk in small quantities.
• Increasing the share of fresh fruits and vegetables in the daily diet, as well as vegetable oils, cereals and bran.

Cystitis in pregnant women

In cases where a disease is diagnosed in a woman carrying a child, it is imperative to follow the rules described below:

• Do not take antibiotics on your own initiative to eliminate the problem unless prescribed by your doctor. This is due to the fact that taking antibacterial medications can have a negative effect on the fetus, and only a qualified specialist has knowledge of which medications are safe during pregnancy.
• Avoid instillation, which involves administering medications in liquid form into the urethra and bladder. Manipulation is dangerous for pregnant women because it can cause miscarriage in the early stages of pregnancy.
• Avoid taking medications that are part of the group of non-steroids and have an anti-inflammatory effect, which can cause the development of pathologies in the child.
• Do not undergo physical therapy treatment.
• Minimize the frequency of taking hot baths, and also avoid visiting saunas, baths and steam rooms to prevent overheating, which can cause uterine hypertonicity.

Therapy for pathology in the later stages of gestation has virtually no differences from the treatment prescribed in the early stages. However, in this case, the threat to the child arising from taking medications is significantly reduced.

It is worth remembering that self-medication is prohibited. Only a doctor determines what to do for cystitis in women during pregnancy. Therefore, you need to immediately report the first signs of illness to the gynecologist, and strictly follow all the recommendations received.

Prevention

The threat of developing the disease can be reduced by following simple preventive measures. They provide:

• Avoiding hypothermia.
• Ensuring that the bladder is emptied at the first urge.
• Maintaining a healthy intimate life, avoiding promiscuous and unprotected relationships.
• Daily consumption of clean drinking water in sufficient volume.
• Timely treatment of any infections of the genitourinary system.
• Compliance with personal hygiene rules.

Prevention of cystitis in women also involves constant bowel movements. An active lifestyle is also important, for which it is recommended to include physical activity in your daily schedule. Thanks to this, you can get rid of congestion in the pelvic organs and stabilize the urination process.

The disease is characterized by extremely unpleasant symptoms and a rapid course, which significantly reduces the level of quality of life. However, a competent approach to its treatment allows you to quickly forget about pain, discomfort and other signs, and also prevent the development of unwanted complications. Specialists will provide a professional approach to the diagnosis and treatment of cystitis, and will also tell you about the rules of behavior necessary to prevent the disease.

FAQ

Many women are interested in information about the disease, because it is one of the most common urological diseases. If you have knowledge about preventive measures, as well as the signs of cystitis and possible methods of treating it, you can deal with the problem much easier if it occurs. Below are frequently asked questions about pathology, as well as detailed answers to them.

Is there such a thing as chronic cystitis?

Failure to promptly treat the acute form of the disease leads to its transition to a chronic course. Chronic cystitis is defined as inflammation of the bladder that occurs at least twice within six months, or includes three episodes of relapse within one year. There are the following types:

• Primary, characterized by the initial development of inflammation in the bladder.
• Secondary, in which the inflammatory process first appears in nearby organs and then spreads to the MP.

How does cystitis hurt in women?

The disease is characterized by a rather painful course. As it develops, the woman begins to experience pain in the lower lumbar region, as well as in the lower abdomen. Also, painful sensations and burning sensations are observed during urination. There is a constant feeling of fullness of the bladder, despite the fact that frequent urges to empty it result in the release of a small volume of urine.

What infections cause female cystitis?

The main infectious agent of the disease is Escherichia coli. It accounts for about eighty percent of all cases of cystitis in women. But its causative agents can also be other microorganisms, including those that cause STIs. The entry of a pathogen into the bladder does not always result in pathology, because the body’s protective functions are aimed at combating it.

Causes of frequent cystitis

The key factor causing recurrence of episodes of the disease is the behavioral aspect:

• Promiscuous sexual intercourse.
• Taking antibiotics that negatively affect the microflora of the vagina and intestines.
• Frequent change of partner.

Women at risk for recurrent pathology are:

• Those using spermicides for contraception.
• Postmenopausal.

Among the possible reasons leading to re-development:

• Residual urine after urination, which is caused by genital prolapse.
• Reduced estrogen levels.
• Features of the location of the urethra caused by anatomical abnormalities.

Can cystitis cause incontinence?

The disease can lead to such an unpleasant condition as urinary incontinence. It occurs as a result of pathological damage to the muscle layer of the bladder, due to which it cannot function normally.

Can cystitis cause constipation?

Constipation can play a role in the development of pathology. The fact is that the bladder and intestines are located very close, and when feces accumulate in the second, pressure occurs on the first. As a result, there is a violation of blood circulation in the pelvic organs, which ultimately disrupts their functioning and causes inflammation.

Constipation with cystitis in women can occur. But it has nothing to do with this disease.

What can you do for cystitis with guardianship?

Treatment of the disease during lactation should be carried out with caution, because during its course it affects the health of not only the mother, but also the child. Only a competent doctor can select a suitable and, most importantly, safe therapeutic regimen. In this case, medications are prescribed that are not excreted in breast milk or do not have a toxic effect on the baby’s body.

Taking any medications without a doctor's prescription is strictly prohibited. In order to alleviate the symptoms of the disease, you can use:

• Dry heat placed on the lower abdomen.
• Antispasmodics allowed during breastfeeding.

It is recommended to follow a special diet and stay in bed. The decision about the possibility of continuing breastfeeding is made by the doctor, taking into account what medications are prescribed to the mother.

Is it possible to eat sweets with cystitis?

In order to increase the effectiveness of treatment aimed at eliminating pathology, it is recommended to adhere to a special diet. It involves excluding certain drinks and foods from the diet, including sweets. After complete recovery, you can return to your normal lifestyle and diet.