Acute Cystitis

See also: Bladder Infection
What is it?
Acute cystitis is an infection of the bladder that occurs suddenly and follows a short, but severe course.
Who gets it?
Acute cystitis is most often seen in women. Although less common, it can also occur in men.
What causes it?
Acute cystitis is caused by bacteria that are normally present in your digestive system and on the skin around the rectum and vagina. The bacteria can pass through the urethra and up into the bladder. This can occur during sexual intercourse, because of poor personal hygiene, or due to a defect in which the urethra is shorter than normal. Cystitis can also be caused by anything that blocks the flow of urine or makes it difficult for the bladder to empty completely, such as pregnancy or, in men, an enlarged prostate, tumor, or kidney stones. Acute cystitis in children is usually caused by urinary tract abnormalities. A virus can also cause cystitis, but this form is rare in adults.
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms of acute cystitis can include a strong persistent urge to urinate, a burning sensation when urinating, passing frequent, small amounts of urine, pain in the lower part of the abdomen or lower back, blood in the urine (hematuria), cloudy, strong-smelling urine, fever, and chills. The inflamed bladder may spasm, causing pain.
How is it diagnosed?
To diagnose acute cystitis, your doctor will look at your medical history, ask about your symptoms, and perform a physical exam that includes pressing on your abdomen to check for tenderness. If acute cystitis is suspected, your physician will ask for a urine sample to determine if bacteria are present in your urine. If you have repeated infections, your doctor may order additional tests such as an ultrasound study of your abdomen; intravenous pyelography (IVP), which is an x-ray of the urinary tract; or a cystoscopy, which involves inserting a tube into the urethra for a close view of the urethra and bladder.
What is the treatment?
To treat acute cystitis, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics to fight the infection and will recommend drinking plenty of fluids to help your body wash away the bacteria. He or she may prescribe pain medication to reduce bladder spasms. Surgery may be necessary to repair structural abnormalities.
Self-care tips
You can prevent acute cystitis by making sure you always empty your bladder completely when you go to the bathroom. Drink plenty of liquids, especially water. Cranberry juice may have infection-fighting properties. Urinate frequently, and avoid holding your urine for a long time after you feel the urge to go. Wipe from front to back after a bowel movement to prevent bacteria in the anal region from spreading to the vagina and urethra. If you are sexually active, empty your bladder as soon as possible after intercourse, wash your genital area to remove any bacteria that could travel up the urethra, and drink a full glass of water to help flush bacteria.