Acute Cystitis: Understanding and Treating Lower Urinary Tract Infections

I'm a family physician and medical director of French origin, having completed my schooling and practiced in France before settling in Quebec. Today, I'd like to shed some light on a common but often misunderstood health problem: acute cystitis, a form of lower urinary tract infection.

What is acute cystitis?

Acute cystitis is an inflammation of the bladder, generally caused by bacterial infection. It is more common in women, due to the proximity of the urethra to the anus and the shorter length of the female urethra, making it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder.

Symptoms of acute cystitis

Symptoms of acute cystitis may include:

- A frequent and urgent need to urinate, even if little urine is produced.

- A burning or painful sensation during urination.

- Pain or cramps in the lower abdomen.

- Cloudy, foul-smelling or bloody urine.

Causes and risk factors

Urinary tract infections are mainly caused by bacteria such as Escherichia coli (E. coli), which normally live in the intestine. Risk factors include:

- Sexual intercourse, which can facilitate the entry of bacteria into the urethra.

- Poor personal hygiene.

- The use of certain hygiene products such as douches or sprays.

- Hormonal changes, particularly during pregnancy or menopause.

Diagnosis and treatment

Diagnosis of acute cystitis is usually based on symptoms, and can be confirmed by urinalysis. Standard treatment includes:

- Prescription of antibiotics to eliminate the infection.

- Drink plenty of water to help expel bacteria from the bladder.

- Analgesics to relieve pain and discomfort.

The benefits of cranberry juice

Cranberry juice is often recommended to prevent urinary tract infections. Here's how it can help:

-Prevents bacterial adhesion: The proanthocyanidins present in cranberries prevent bacteria, particularly E. coli, from attaching themselves to bladder walls, thereby reducing the risk of infection.

-Diuretic effect: Drinking cranberry juice increases urine production, which helps eliminate bacteria from the bladder.

-Antioxidant properties: Cranberries are rich in antioxidants, which help boost the immune system and protect cells from damage.

Prevention

To reduce the risk of acute cystitis, here are a few tips:

- Drink plenty of water to dilute urine and encourage frequent urination.

- Urinate immediately after intercourse to help eliminate bacteria.

- Wipe from front to back after using the toilet to prevent the spread of bacteria.

- Avoid irritating products such as douches and feminine sprays.

- Consume cranberry juice or cranberry supplements regularly.

When to consult?

If you develop symptoms of acute cystitis, it's important to see a doctor quickly to avoid complications. Untreated infection can lead to more serious kidney infections.

Conclusion

Acute cystitis is a common but treatable condition. By being aware of the symptoms and taking preventive measures, you can reduce your risk of developing this infection. For medical consultations or personalized advice, don't hesitate to book an appointment on our Allodocteur.ca platform.

By incorporating these tips and adopting good hygiene practices, you can effectively prevent and manage acute cystitis. If you have any questions or would like to arrange a consultation, please contact me via our telemedicine service or home visits.

I hope this article has been helpful and that you feel better informed about lower urinary tract infections and acute cystitis. Take care of yourself!