Cystitis in women: features of the course of the disease and methods of therapy

The structure of the female urinary organs is such that cystitis develops in women much more often than in men. This is due to the structure of the urethra, in the first place: in men, it is longer and much narrower. The inlet of the urethra can receive microtrauma and irritation during intercourse, which opens the way for infection. Inflammatory processes in the organs of the reproductive system also become a source of infection. But most often, cystitis begins from the fact that the most common E. coli penetrates from the rectum into the bladder. This happens when hygiene procedures are performed incorrectly or rarely. In women, the entrance to the vagina and anus are located close, and bacteria easily get from the anal area to the vagina, and then to the bladder through the urethral canal.

There is, however, another way of infection: pathogens with blood come from diseased kidneys or other organs where there is acute or chronic inflammation.

Complex treatment of cystitis

Do not be surprised if the doctor recommends that you undergo treatment with a dentist, undergo an examination by a gastroenterologist, consult a gynecologist. While there are inflammatory processes in the body, cystitis may recur over and over again, eventually becoming chronic.

In addition, exacerbation of the disease is often caused by hormonal changes in the female body: the onset of pregnancy or the onset of menopause.

Doctors should comprehensively examine the patient with cystitis. Based on the test results, the causative agent of the disease is determined and the most effective antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, antispasmodics and immunostimulants are prescribed.

Addition to drug treatment

An obligatory part of the treatment should be a sparing diet, excluding strong tea, coffee and alcohol of any strength, salinity and smoked meats, and in general all products that can irritate the mucous membrane. Plentiful drinking is recommended, especially cranberry juice or fresh juice. The patient is prescribed to spend 3-5 days in bed, applying heat to the lower abdomen and lower back.

Often physiotherapy is prescribed to speed up recovery. It is also necessary to carefully observe personal hygiene: for the duration of treatment, refuse sexual contact, wash the genitals after each trip to the toilet, take a shower instead of a bath.