Cystitis in women

Cystitis is one of the urological pathologies that most frequently affects the female organism. In fact, almost every woman encounters it at least once in her life. The disease significantly reduces the quality of life, causing 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 background of the need to frequently go to the toilet and give up some familiar things.

What to do if signs of illness appear? Stop 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 carry out a comprehensive assessment of the nature of pathology and the prognosis of therapy, carry out diagnostics using modern methods and 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 type of non-bacterial pathology is also known.

Cystitis in women is a frequently recurring problem. According to statistics, in half of all cases of the disease, a visit to the specialist is repeated 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 a periodically occurring exacerbation of symptoms.

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

• Formation of adhesions in the PM.
• Malfunction of the urinary system.
• Renal insufficiency.
• 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 the entry of fungi or bacteria. The threat of infection also increases due to the fact that the female urethra is short and wide, which allows pathogenic organisms to easily enter the urinary tract if the rules of intimate hygiene 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 sexual relations. In this case, the entry of pathogenic microorganisms has an ascending character. They first enter the vagina and urethra.
• Special manipulations and surgical interventions. For example, catheterization of the bladder for a long period of time significantly increases the likelihood of developing inflammatory processes.
• The use of certain detergents and intimate hygiene care products, whose substances can cause an aggressive reaction in the body.
• Exposure to low temperatures due to decreased immune capabilities. It is worth understanding that simply being in the cold cannot cause pathology. This stay provokes 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.
• Alterations 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, due to the variability of its forms. The main symptoms of 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 liquid consumed.
• Pain in the lower abdomen.
• Disturbance of urinary flow, which is expressed in a small volume of urine excreted with a constant feeling of fullness of the bladder.
• A change in urine color to brown or reddish, as well as a pungent odor that differs from normal.
• Unpleasant sensations during the process of emptying the bladder, manifested in pain and burning.
• Swelling.
• False urge to defecate.
• Transfer of painful sensations to other areas of the pelvis.
• Blood or mucous inclusions in the urine, its turbidity.
• Sleep disturbance.

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

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 to the patient about existing complaints about her condition and will also analyze the medical history to identify risk factors for the disease. In some cases, examination of the external genital organs allows us to determine what the origin of the inflammatory process could be. Additionally, instrumental and laboratory diagnostics are carried out to clarify the reasons that caused the unpleasant symptoms.

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

• Urine collection for analysis of its cellular and biological composition. It is important to explain to the patient the basic rules for directly preparing and collecting urine.
• General blood test from a vein. It is performed to check the presence or absence of other diseases and assess the general condition.
• Bacterial culture of urine, which allows the pathogen to be isolated 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 drug for cystitis in women.
• Cystoscopy, which involves examining the mucosa of the bladder by inserting a thin tube with a camera on the end through the urethra. The image 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.

Cystitis treatment

The treatment program is prescribed by a doctor and is determined by the identified provocateurs of the development of the inflammatory process. Competent therapy should be aimed at combating pathogens and other factors that cause 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 to minimize the risk of complications. The therapeutic course can then be adjusted 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 the results of the diagnosis.

The duration of antibiotic treatment for cystitis in women ranges from three to fourteen days. During this time it is necessary to consult a doctor.

Diuretics

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

Antispasmodics

Drugs in this group have also proven effective in solving urological problems such as cystitis in women. Reception of antispasmodics in tablet form does not have a specific effect on the bladder area. In this case, a systemic effect occurs 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 not justified. This is due to its effect on the muscular layer of the bladder, while the pathology is an inflammation of its mucosa, which has nothing to do with the muscles.

Vitamin preparations

Vitamins are taken during the rehabilitation period 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 of certain vitamin preparations, as well as their dosage, is based on a series 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 that:

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

All the above functions work fine:

• Multivitamins containing at least two components.
• Vitamin complexes indicated for cystitis in women. Contains useful elements and minerals. Promotes general restoration and strengthening of the body.
• Monovitamins prescribed for severe immunodeficiencies and chronic diseases, 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 the determination of its optimal dosage, as well as the frequency of administration and the duration of treatment, are determined solely by the doctor.

Features of the diet for cystitis

The effectiveness of the treatment depends largely on the diet the woman follows during treatment. It is recommended to follow certain rules regarding the consumption of certain foods and drinks throughout the 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.
• Minimize the consumption of dairy and fermented dairy products. It is allowed to consume unsalted and low-fat cheeses, low-fat yogurt and cottage cheese, and milk in small quantities.
• Increase the proportion 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 pregnant woman, it is imperative to follow the rules described below:

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

Therapy for pathology in the later stages of gestation practically does not differ from the treatment prescribed in the early stages. However, in this case, the threat to the child arising from taking medication is significantly reduced.

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

Prevention

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

• Avoid hypothermia.
• Ensure that the bladder is emptied on the first impulse.
• Maintain a healthy intimate life, avoiding promiscuous and unprotected relationships.
• Daily consumption of clean drinking water in sufficient volume.
• Timely treatment of any infection of the genitourinary system.
• Compliance with personal hygiene standards.

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 the daily agenda. Thanks to this, you will be able to 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, as well as 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.

Frequently asked questions

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

Does chronic cystitis exist?

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 in six months or includes three episodes of relapse in 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 PM.

How does cystitis hurt in women?

The disease is characterized by a rather painful course. As it develops, the woman begins to feel pain in the lower lumbar region, as well as in the lower abdomen. Additionally, painful and burning sensations are observed when urinating. There is a constant feeling of fullness of the bladder, even though the frequent need to empty it causes 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 approximately 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 that causes the recurrence of disease episodes is the behavioral aspect:

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

Women at risk of suffering recurrent pathology are:

• Those who use spermicides as contraceptives.
• Postmenopausal.

Among the possible reasons leading to redevelopment:

• Residual urine after urinating, 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 cause such an unpleasant condition as urinary incontinence. It occurs as a result of pathological damage to the muscular layer of the bladder, due to which it cannot function normally.

Can cystitis cause constipation?

Constipation can play a role in the development of the 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, blood circulation in the pelvic organs is impaired, which ultimately disrupts their functioning and causes inflammation.

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

What can be done with cystitis under guardianship?

Treatment of the disease during breastfeeding should be carried out with caution, since 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 with breast milk or do not have toxic effects on the baby's body.

It is strictly prohibited to take any medication without a doctor's prescription. To relieve the symptoms of the disease, you can use:

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

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

Is it possible to eat sweets with cystitis?

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