CYSTITIS

DEFINITION

Cystitis is inflammation of the bladder caused by trauma or bacterial infection.

DESCRIPTION

Bacteria entering the urethra, which offers the ideal warm environment for germs to multiply rapidly, cause more often than not cystitis. This is why an attack of cystitis can occur with very little warning.

Cystitis is an inflammation of the bladder that makes you want to urinate frequently with an unpleasant and annoying, burning sensation, which is caused by the acidity of your urine as it is passed.

The urine maybe cloudy and there may be an odour. Please note: The presence of blood in the urine warrants immediate medical attention.    

SYMPTOMS

* The desire to pass urine frequently/urgently (but only passing few painful, burning drops.)

* Pain on passing urine ( back and abdominal)

* Urine may be cloudy and strong in odor.

* blood may appear in urine,(see your doctor)

* Vaginal discharge (see your doctor)

PLEASE NOTE

Chronic and recurrent cystitis should be addressed by your Doctor.

TREATMENT

* Available from your Pharmacist is a special powder which helps neutralise the acid in the urine, reducing the burning sensation. This powder is dissolved in water and taken several times a day. The powder is URAL.

* Your Doctor will also prescribe antibiotics to clear up the infection which causes Cystitis.

SOLUTION KIT

The best solution for the condition of Cystitis is using what the Pharmacist will call our Solution Kit, which includes:

1) URAL - Which is a powder that neutralises the acid in the urine, that will relieve the burning sensation.

2) CRANBERRY- is a herb that stops the bacteria adhering to the wall of the uterus. So it can be used a preventive. Cranberry also works as an antiseptic and deodorant, which gives your body a head start in fighting the infection.

DIET HINTS

* Eat a healthy diet and avoid acid foods, e.g. salt, spices, sugar, and vinegar.

* Drink plenty of water ( two litres a day) to dilute the urine and help flush the infection out of your system.

* If your diet is in adequate you may consider taking a supplement:

 Echinacea, Vitamin C and Zinc which help your immune system to fight of infection.

A WORD FROM THE PHARMACIST

1)      Careful hygiene is essential. After going to the toilet, wipe away from the direction of the vaginal opening to help keep bacteria away.

2)      Drink plenty of fluids (2 litres a day) to dilute the urine.

3)      Urinate when there is a need and do not put it off.

4)       Wear cool cotton underwear, rather than synthetic material to help with ventilation (panty hose and tight jeans should not be worn).

5)      Sexual intercourse can aggravate this condition.

6)      Lower irritation in the area by using low perfumed and ph balanced soaps and low perfumed talc’s.

7)      Available at the pharmacy is a powder to neutralise the acid in the urine, which will lower the burning sensation. This powder is dissolved in water and taken four times a day.

8)      The use of herb, Cranberry is also a very effective way of treating cystitis. Cranberry stops the bacteria adhering to the uterus wall. Giving your body a head start in fighting the infection.        

CONCLUSION

Over the counter items are available for the treatment of cystitis, but are only recommend when used in conjunction with prescribed medication from the Doctor or when symptoms are mild.