Cystitis
"Cystitis is a common but treatable condition. Early detection and appropriate treatment are essential to prevent complications and improve our patients' quality of life".
DR. FELIPE VILLACAMPA
SPECIALIST. UROLOGY DEPARTMENT
What is cystitis?
Cystitis is an inflammation of the urinary bladder, usually caused by a bacterial infection. It is a common medical condition that can affect people of all ages, although it is more common in women due to their anatomy.
Cystitis is classified as a urinary tract infection (UTI) and is one of the most prevalent forms. Cystitis is an important medical condition that can have a significant impact on the quality of life of those who suffer from it.
The main cause of cystitis is bacterial infection, with Escherichia coli (E. coli) being responsible in most cases. These bacteria, which normally live in the intestine, can reach the bladder through the urethra, causing infection.
In addition to bacterial infections, cystitis can also be caused by non-infectious factors, such as chemical irritation, the use of certain hygiene products, medical treatments or underlying conditions such as radiotherapy or interstitial cystitis.
Symptoms of cystitis
The most common symptoms of cystitis are:
Burning or pain during urination
Many people experience a stinging sensation or discomfort during urination.
Urinary frequency
The need to urinate frequently, but in small amounts. This symptom, known as pollakiuria, is one of the most common.
Constant feeling of wanting to urinate
Even after emptying the bladder, the feeling of urgency to urinate may persist.
Bloody urine
In some cases, the infection may cause blood to appear in the urine, which is seen as a change in the colour of the urine.
No fever
Unlike other urinary tract infections, cystitis usually occurs without fever.
Do you have any of these symptoms?
If you suspect that you have any of the above symptoms,
you should consult a medical specialist for a diagnosis.
Types of cystitis
- Acute cystitis is the most common form, characterised by sudden onset and intense symptoms.
- Recurrent cystitis, on the other hand, occurs in repeated episodes, often due to persistent predisposing factors or an underlying infection that has not completely resolved.
- Interstitial cystitis, also known as painful bladder syndrome, is a chronic form of cystitis without an identifiable bacterial cause, and its origin is less well understood.
Causes of cystitis
The usual germs come from faeces (enterobacteria). The most common is Escherichia coli (E. coli). This bacterium is responsible for 85% of uncomplicated infections in sexually active women, 70% of uncomplicated adult infections and 50% of hospital infections.
After E. coli, the most common germs are: Proteus, Klebsiella, Enterobacter, Citrobacter, Pseudomona, Serratia, Staphylococcus streptococcus faecalis and especially Staphylococcus saprophyticus.
What are the risk factors for cystitis?
Socio-economic conditions: Poverty or limited access to medical services may increase the risk.
Hospital settings - prolonged hospital stays or the use of devices such as urinary catheters increase the likelihood of infection.
Abnormalities in the urinary tract - malformations or structural alterations may predispose to infection.
Kidney stones (lithiasis). Especially struvite stones, which promote infection and require specific treatment.
Use of barrier contraceptives, methods such as diaphragms increase the risk of infection up to four times.
Urinary obstruction - the most important risk factor, as it makes it difficult to expel bacteria and can damage the kidneys.
Diabetes. Increased glucose in the urine promotes bacterial growth.
Immunosuppression. A weakened immune system, whether due to illness or treatment, increases vulnerability.
Pregnancy: During pregnancy, women are more likely to develop urinary tract infections due to changes in the body that make it easier for bacteria to accumulate.
Sexual activity: In sexually active women, the risk can be up to 40 times higher.
How is cystitis diagnosed?
To be considered as cystitis, bacterial growth in urine culture must demonstrate significant bacteriuria.
Next, it is necessary to identify the anatomical location of the infection, using clinical symptoms and, if necessary, complementary examinations.
Finally, it is necessary to indicate whether it is a:
- Primoinfection or isolated infection
- Unresolved infection
- Recurrent infection
Treatment of cystitis depends on the underlying cause and severity of the infection, and can range from antibiotics to self-care measures and lifestyle changes.
Treatment for cystitis
Treatment of cystitis depends on the underlying cause and severity of the infection, and can range from antibiotics to self-care measures and lifestyle changes.
Antibioticis treatment of cystitis
The standard treatment for bacterial cystitis is the administration of antibiotics. Physicians select the type of antibiotic based on the type of bacteria responsible for the infection and local bacterial resistance. Among the most commonly prescribed antibiotics are:
- Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole: This is one of the most commonly used antibiotics to treat uncomplicated cystitis.
- Nitrofurantoin: Effective for the treatment of lower urinary tract infections, including cystitis.
- Fosfomycin: Often used in a single dose, which facilitates adherence to treatment.
- Fluoroquinolones: Reserved for more severe or complicated cases due to their resistance profile.
The duration of antibiotic treatment can vary from three to seven days in uncomplicated cases, and can be extended in more complex situations.
Self-care measures
In addition to medical treatment, there are several self-care measures that can help relieve the symptoms of cystitis and prevent recurrence:
- Adequate fluid intake: Drinking enough water can help flush bacteria from the urinary system.
- Personal hygiene: Maintaining good genital hygiene can prevent bacteria from entering the urethra.
- Frequent urination: Not holding urine for prolonged periods can reduce the risk of infection
- Proper clothing: Wearing cotton underwear and avoiding tight-fitting clothing can help keep the genital area dry and reduce the risk of infection.
Where do we treat it?
IN NAVARRA AND MADRID
The Department of Urology
of the Clínica Universidad de Navarra
The Department of Urology of the University of Navarra Clinic offers the patient a medical team, composed of first-rate professionals, and state-of-the-art diagnostic and therapeutic means such as the Da Vinci® robotic surgery.
The Department of Urology possesses the certificate of accreditation of the European Board of Urology, a reinforcement of the excellence of the service at the level of care, teaching and research, which in Spain only three hospital centers possess.
Diseases we treat:
- Prostate Cancer
- Kidney Cancer
- Bladder Cancer
- Testicular Cancer
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia
- Urinary Incontinence
- Renal Lithiasis
- Genitourinary Prolapses
- Pediatric Urology
Why at the Clinica?
- A team of top-level professionals trained in international centers.
- State-of-the-art technology for diagnosis and treatment.
- In 24-48 hours you can start the most appropriate treatment.
Our expert cystitis team
