Cystitis: how to recognize, treat and prevent this common urinary tract infection?

Cystitis is a urinary tract infection affecting the bladder. It primarily affects women, whose shorter urethra makes it easier for bacteria to travel up to the bladder. In most cases, the infection is caused by a bacterium naturally present in the intestines, usually Escherichia coli . A simple case of cystitis is usually not serious, but it should be treated properly to prevent the infection from spreading to the kidneys.

The most common symptoms are a frequent and urgent need to urinate, burning during urination, and the passage of small amounts of urine. The urine may become cloudy, have an unusual odor, or contain blood. In contrast, a simple cystitis does not normally cause a high fever or lower back pain. The appearance of these signs may indicate pyelonephritis, a kidney infection that requires prompt medical attention.

Some people are at greater risk

Sexual intercourse, insufficient hydration, frequent urinary retention, pregnancy, and menopause can all increase the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). Diabetes, certain urinary tract abnormalities, kidney stones, difficulty emptying the bladder completely, or the use of a catheter are also risk factors. Any suspected case of cystitis should be evaluated by a doctor in men, children, pregnant women, or individuals with underlying health conditions.

Diagnosis is based on symptoms and, when necessary, a urine dipstick test or a urine culture. In France, some women aged 16 to 65 who are not pregnant and show no signs of complications can be referred directly to a pharmacy for testing. However, the pharmacist will check for any risk factors before prescribing antibiotics.

Antibiotics should not be taken haphazardly

When a bacterial infection is confirmed or strongly suspected, treatment generally involves an antibiotic chosen according to the patient's profile and medical recommendations. It is essential to adhere to the prescribed dose and duration, even if symptoms disappear quickly. Self-medication with antibiotics saved from a previous infection is discouraged, as it can be ineffective and contribute to antibiotic resistance.

To reduce the risk of recurrence, it is recommended to drink fluids regularly, urinate promptly, empty your bladder completely, and urinate after sexual intercourse. It is advisable to consult a doctor quickly if you experience fever, chills, back or side pain, vomiting, pregnancy, symptoms in a man or child, or if there is no improvement after starting treatment. Repeated cystitis should also prompt an investigation for an underlying cause.