If you have symptoms that are consistent with a urinary infection, chances are you may have cystitis. Cystitis is an inflammation of the bladder that is often caused by a bacterial infection. Cystitis is also one of the most common UTIs diagnosed. In this article, we’re going to address some of the symptoms of cystitis, how can it be treated, and what you should do if you think you may have it.

What causes Cystitis?

As we mentioned earlier, cystitis is usually caused by a bacterial infection, more specifically E Coli. While E Coli can be found in your digestive tract and your skin and cause no issues, it can be harmful once it enters your urinary tract.

E Coli is not the only way you can get cystitis, however. In some cases, you can get cystitis from chemicals often found in bath products, personal care products, or even spermicide. Chemotherapy drugs and radiation treatment could also be a cause.

In some cases, people get what is called interstitial cystitis, which is a condition where the bladder is chronically swollen. Causes for interstitial cystitis are much less known and treatment is more difficult as well.

What are the Symptoms of Cystitis?

There are many symptoms that could be a sign of cystitis. If it stings, hurts or burns when you pee, then it’s a definite sign. If you have a constant urge to pee, it is also a clear sign.

If you constantly feel sick or have a fever, this could be caused by cystitis as well. Or if you constantly have to pee but can hardly get any pee out when you go, then it could be a sign as well. Cloudy, dark, or strong-smelling pee are other symptoms to look out for.

What are the Treatments for Cystitis?

Before prescribing a treatment, your urologist will perform a diagnosis of your condition. They will first perform a urine analysis to see if there are any signs of pus, blood, or bacteria in your pee. Then they will run a urine culture to see exactly which bacteria is in there. In most cases, this is all you may need.

The good news is that in most cases, cystitis can be cured with antibiotics only. If you’re a woman and past menopause, they might prescribe a vaginal cream with estrogen in it as well.

If you ever notice blood in your pee or if your symptoms last more than a few hours, then you should seek help immediately. Or, if you have a high fever, you’re experiencing tremors, throwing up or have severe pain in your back or sides, then it could be a sign that you’re having a kidney infection as well. If you’re showing any of the symptoms, we strongly suggest you call us today to schedule an appointment with the best urologist doctor in NYC.

Call our offices today at 212-675-3186 to discuss the concern and to learn what solutions may be available to you.