Urine infection or Cystitis?

May 26, 2021 Cystitis / UTI

Each year thousands of people suffer with Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs), it is an infection which is irritating and more common in women than men. UTI can be used to describe any infection which affects the urinary system, most commonly this is caused by bacteria. There are three different types of urine infection, and they each relate to the region in which the infection has taken place.

• Cystitis – An infection of the Bladder
• Urethritis – An infection of the urethra (the tube which carries urine out of the body)
• Pyelonephritis – An infection of the Kidneys

Women are more likely to have infections of their urinary tract due to their shorter urethra. Bacteria enter the urethra which is the tube that carries urine out of the body. Most of the time UTIs are caused by bacteria, but sometimes it can also be due to a reaction to chemicals in soap/hygiene products.

As you can see from above Cystitis is a type of UTI, Urinary Tract Infections are an umbrella term for the group of infections affecting the urinary system.

Cystitis is the most common type of UTI and it’s estimated that almost 50% of women will have suffered from a UTI at some point in their lives. It’s important to be able to spot the signs of a UTI, the most common signs of UTIs are as follows:

• Burning sensation and/or discharge on urination (Urethritis)
•  Increased frequency of urination/ blood in urine and lower abdomen pain or discomfort (Cystitis)
• Temperature, Chills, Nausea/Vomiting, pain in upper back and side (Pyelonephritis)

Urethritis is most likely where infections will first develop. As the infection slowly progresses to the bladder this causes cystitis, and if it gets really bad then they can start affecting the kidneys (Pyelonephritis).

Although most UTIs can be relatively easy to treat, it is important to get treated as soon as possible to prevent it escalating and causing more issues. An infection of the kidneys is more serious and can be more difficult to treat, so it is important to diagnose and treat at the first signs.

There are plenty of treatments on offer, ranging from over the counter products based on cranberry to antibiotics. To take a look at our over the counter cysytitis treatments here. Alternatively, if you believe that your infection has become more severe then take a look at our prescription treatments here.  

B.V. MAY 21