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Cystitis in women

Female cystitis is an inflammation that occurs in the tissues of the bladder

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

The disease is very insidious on a psycho-emotional level. 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 abandon some familiar things.

What to do if signs of illness appear? Stop trying to eliminate them yourself or wait until the symptoms go away on their own. It is best 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 treatment, 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 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 illness there is a repeated visit to a specialist during the 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 progression of the disease over a long period without treatment leads to complications, including:

  • Formation of adhesions in the MP.
  • Dysfunctions of the urinary system.
  • Renal failure.
  • Bleeding and the appearance of ulcers on the walls of the bladder.
  • Benign and malignant tumors.

Reasons for the appearance

Most often, inflammation of the bladder mucosa occurs due to the penetration of fungi or bacteria. The risk 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 of the bladder of the female body are:

  • Infections, including those transmitted during unprotected sex. In this case, the entry of pathogenic microorganisms is bottom-up in nature. They first enter the vagina and urethra.
  • Special manipulations and surgical interventions. For example, catheterization of the bladder for a long period significantly increases the risk of developing inflammatory processes.
  • The use of certain detergents and care products for intimate hygiene, the substances of which can cause an aggressive reaction in the body.
  • Exposure to low temperatures due to decreased immune capabilities. It should be understood that simply being in the cold cannot cause pathology. Such a stay becomes a provocateur for the development of cystitis in women with weak immunity.

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

  • Chronic infection of any location.
  • Gynecological diseases of an inflammatory nature have suffered in the recent past.
  • Disturbances in the hormonal system.
  • Failure to comply with personal hygiene rules.
  • Chaotic intimate life.
  • Obesity.
  • Long-term use of certain medications, which leads to a decrease in the protective properties of the body.
  • 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.
  • An urge to urinate more frequently than usual, which has nothing to do with the volume of fluid consumed.
  • Pain in the lower abdomen.
  • Decreased 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 by pain and burning.
  • Bloating.
  • False urge to defecate.
  • Transfer of painful sensations to other areas of the pelvis.
  • Inclusions of blood or mucous membranes in urine, its turbidity.
  • Sleep disorder.

Additionally, 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 a too 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. At the appointment, a competent urologist will discuss with the patient the existing complaints regarding the disease, and will also analyze the medical history in order to identify risk factors for the disease. In some cases, examining the external genitalia helps determine what could be the source of the inflammatory process. Additionally, laboratory and instrumental diagnostics are carried out to clarify the reasons that caused the unpleasant symptoms.

Before proceeding with the 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 of 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 the pathogen to be isolated using special media. In addition, the technique aims to determine 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 lining of the bladder by inserting a thin tube with a camera at the end into 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.

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 cause the appearance of unpleasant symptoms.

In case of 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. Then, the therapeutic course can be adjusted in order to obtain 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 and stop the infection to prevent its spread to other organs. At the early stages of treatment of an acute illness, broad-spectrum antibiotics are prescribed, 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 treatment. In the case of a chronic illness, medications are prescribed after receiving the diagnostic results.

The duration of antibiotic treatment for cystitis in women varies from three to fourteen days. During this time, you should consult a doctor.

Diuretics

This group includes drugs with a diuretic effect. Their consumption increases the flow of urine, 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 favor herbal options.

Antispasmodics

Drugs in this group have also shown their effectiveness in solving urological problems such as cystitis in women. Taking antispasmodics in tablet form has no targeted effect on the bladder. 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 of this group as part of the treatment of the disease is unjustified. This is due to their effect on the muscular layer of the bladder, while the pathology is inflammation of its mucosa, 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 part of the main treatment and for preventive purposes.

The choice in favor of certain vitamin preparations, as well as their dosage, is based on several 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 process of tissue regeneration.

All 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 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 drug 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 largely depends 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 the consumption of fish, poultry and fatty meats.
  • Minimize the consumption of dairy and fermented milk products. It is allowed to consume unsalted and low-fat cheeses, low-fat yogurts and cottage cheese, as well as milk in small quantities.
  • Increase 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 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 administering medications in liquid form into the urethra and bladder. Manipulation is dangerous for pregnant women because it can cause miscarriage early in the pregnancy.
  • Avoid taking medications that are part of the non-steroid group and have an anti-inflammatory effect, which can provoke the development of pathologies in children.
  • Do not undergo physiotherapy treatment.
  • Minimize the frequency of hot baths and also avoid going to saunas, baths and steam rooms to avoid overheating, which can cause uterine hypertonia.

Treatment of pathology in the later stages of gestation has practically no difference from the treatment prescribed in the early stages. However, in this case the threat to the child from taking medications is significantly reduced.

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

Prevention

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

  • Avoid hypothermia.
  • Ensure that the bladder is emptied at the first urge.
  • Maintain a healthy intimate life, avoiding promiscuous and unprotected relationships.
  • Daily consumption of drinking water in sufficient volume.
  • Prompt treatment of any infection 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 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 offer you a professional approach to the diagnosis and treatment of cystitis, and will also explain the rules of behavior necessary to prevent the disease.

FAQs

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

Is there chronic cystitis?

The inability 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 of the bladder.
  • Secondary, in which the inflammatory process first appears in neighboring 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 the lower abdomen. Additionally, 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 lead to 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 micro-organisms, notably those which cause STIs. The entry of a pathogen into the bladder does not always lead to pathology, since the protective functions of the body are aimed at combating it.

Causes of frequent cystitis

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

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

Women at risk of recurrent pathology are:

  • Those who use spermicides for contraception.
  • Postmenopause.

Among the possible reasons leading to redevelopment:

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

Can cystitis cause incontinence?

The disease can lead to such an unpleasant condition as urinary incontinence. This 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. This results in a violation of blood circulation in the pelvic organs, which ultimately disrupts their functioning and causes inflammation.

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

What to do in case of cystitis with 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 treatment regimen. In this case, drugs are prescribed that are not excreted in breast milk or do not have a toxic effect on the baby's body.

Taking medications without a medical 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 the medications prescribed to the mother.

Is it possible to eat sweets with cystitis?

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