Cystitis is a common condition where the lining of the bladder becomes inflamed making urination painful. Most of the time the inflammation is caused by a bacterial infection, in which case it may be referred to as a urinary tract infection (UTI). A UTI can be painful and annoying, and can become a serious health problem if the infection spreads to your kidneys. For this reason, you should consult your doctor immediately if your symptoms are accompanied by fever, blood in the urine, loin pain, or lower backache – all these can be signs of a kidney infection.
The cause of a bladder infection can be confirmed by a urine analysis, although some bacteria are not always identified. It can also be caused by candida (see Special Report on How to Beat Candida)
If there is evidence of infection, for example with E.coli bacteria, you will probably be prescribed antiobiotics. If so, make sure you also take probiotics, but not at the same time, and for two weeks after completing the antibiotic course.
If there is no evidence of infection, you may be diagnosed with ‘interstitial’ cystitis.
• Common symptoms
• Why cranberry can be helpful – but not regular cranberry juice
• The best diet to resolve cystitis
• Helpful supplements
• Lifestyle tips
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