Cystitis
Cystitis is inflammation of the bladder, commonly caused by a urinary tract infection.
About cystitis
Cystitis is inflammation of the bladder, commonly caused by a urinary tract infection.
What can cause it?
Cystitis is usually a bacterial bladder infection; irritation, medicines, radiation, or painful bladder syndrome are other causes.
Untreated bacterial infection can spread to the kidneys.
What a patient may notice
Symptoms vary from person to person. Possible signs may include:
- Burning or pain with urination
- Frequent or urgent urination
- Lower abdominal discomfort or cloudy, strong-smelling urine
How clinicians find the cause
Urinalysis and urine culture assess infection. Pregnancy testing, STI testing, or imaging may be needed based on symptoms and history.
Treatment and next steps
- 1
Bacterial cystitis is treated with an antibiotic chosen for the patient and local resistance.
- 2
Finish the course and do not use leftover antibiotics.
- 3
Recurrent or noninfectious symptoms require a different evaluation.
Supporting recovery
- Drink fluids as medically appropriate and urinate when needed.
- Use clinician-approved pain care and track fever, back pain, and vomiting.
What to expect
Uncomplicated bacterial cystitis usually improves after the correct antibiotic is started, although urinary burning and urgency may take a short time to settle. Symptoms that do not improve, return soon, or occur repeatedly need another evaluation because the organism, diagnosis, or prevention plan may need to change.
Possible complications
- Kidney infection when bacteria travel upward from the bladder
- Recurrent urinary infections or persistent symptoms that require further testing
- Bloodstream infection or serious illness in pregnancy, older adults, or people with urinary blockage or immune problems
When to Contact a Medical Professional
A same-day medical evaluation is recommended, especially when symptoms are severe, worsening, or accompanied by fever, vomiting, weakness, or significant pain.
Fever, chills, back or side pain, vomiting, pregnancy, confusion, or severe illness may indicate a kidney infection and needs prompt care.Get emergency help for severe trouble breathing, new chest pressure, fainting, seizure, sudden weakness on one side, uncontrolled bleeding, blue or gray lips, or a person who is difficult to wake.
Ways to lower risk
- Hydration, urinating after sex, and avoiding spermicides may help some patients.
- Recurrent infections need an individualized prevention plan.
Trusted health information
This CHS patient-education page uses original wording and links to MedlinePlus for additional information.