Cystitis – Causes, Symptoms & Cystitis Relief

What is Cystitis

Simply put, cystitis is a bladder infection. It is an inflammation caused when the urethra or bladder, which are normally sterile, become infected with bacteria. It affects women who are sexually active between the ages of 20 and 50 the most. The infection is most often caused by E. Coli or Staphylococcus saprophyticus bacteria.

Men rarely get cystitis. It is much more common in women because the urethra is shorter so bacteria do not have to travel very far to get to penetrate the bladder. In women the urethra is also located closer to the anus, the source of a potential E. Coli infection.

The bacteria can be introduced to the urethra during sexual intercourse. Normally, urinating would flush the bacteria away, but if you do not urinate within 30 minutes of intercourse the bacteria can spread quickly.

Cystitis Symptoms

Symptoms of cystitis can include feeling pressure in the lower pelvis, painful urination and the urge to urinate frequently. If you have to urinate in the middle of the night and this is not usual for you it can also be a symptom.

Urine may also be an unusual color, have blood in it or have a foul smell. Blood in the urine indicates a severe infection and you should see a doctor as soon as possible.

Cystitis Relief

In sexually active women the best prevention is to urinate immediately after intercourse. If you do not do this and you believe that you have a urinary tract infection you will need to see your doctor. You will have to take an anti-biotic to clear up the infection.

To relieve symptoms until you can see the doctor take cranberry supplements or drink cranberry juice. While cranberry juice can prevent cystitis, it will not completely cure it. It can relieve the symptoms and drinking a glass everyday will certainly help you prevent future infections. Sexually active women should drink 8 ounces each day.

Also, drinking large amounts of water can reduce the pain until you see the doctor because it will dilute the amount of bacteria in your bladder and reduce the inflammation; again it will not clear the infection completely.

Urva ursi can treat a bladder infection, but should only be used for short periods of time. Lemon balm will also help treat the infection and can be used for as long as needed because it has no side effects.

Eating yoghurt or taking acidophilus supplements will help keep bad bacteria at bay. There are many herbs that you can use to support overall bladder health and thus prevent cystitis.

They include garlic, onion, and goldenseal, dandelion, shave grass and lemons.  Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetable will also promote good bladder health. Natural supplements are also available to cure cystitis.

Zenulife recommends Xbiotic for an effective cystitis relief formula