Cystitis is the medical term for a bladder inflammation. Most commonly, this inflammation is caused by a bacterial infection and is called a urinary tract infection (UTI). Less commonly, cystitis can be caused by a reaction to certain drugs, radiation therapy or irritants (e.g., feminine hygiene spray, spermicidal jelly or long-term use of a catheter). This infection can usually be treated with a course of antibiotics and may be prevented by taking a single dose of antibiotics after sexual activity, which is a common trigger for these infections.

What Are the Symptoms?

Cystitis may be asymptomatic, but more often is painful and uncomfortable for sufferers. The symptoms of this infection may mirror those of some sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) or other infections, so be sure to seek your doctor’s input if you experience cystitis symptoms, and be sure to refrain from sexual activity until you receive an accurate diagnosis.

Often, cystitis will include signs and symptoms such as:

Persistent Urge To Urinate

Patients who are suffering from cystitis often have a persistent urge to urinate, even shortly after they’ve emptied their bladders. Accompanying the persistent urge to urinate, if you have cystitis, you may find yourself making more frequent trips to the bathroom to urinate small amounts.

Burning Sensation While Urinating

Cystitis sufferers will often feel a painful or burning sensation during urination or after they’ve emptied their bladders. This sensation ranges from a mild discomfort to a strong pain, depending on the sufferer.

Blood in Urine

Some cystitis sufferers may find blood in their urine. If you notice that your urine has blood in it, contact your doctor immediately and share your symptoms.