Cystitis is a common condition, particularly among women, where the bladder becomes inflamed, usually due to a bacterial infection. It’s a type of urinary tract infection (UTI) that can cause discomfort and pain. While it often resolves on its own, knowing how to get rid of cystitis fast is crucial, as treatment is sometimes necessary to prevent more serious complications like kidney infections [1][2].
What causes cystitis?
The most common cause of cystitis is bacteria, particularly Escherichia coli (E. coli), which can enter the bladder through the urethra, causing inflammation [2]. Women are more susceptible due to their shorter urethra, making it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder. Other factors contributing to what causes cystitis include certain medications, radiation therapy, and chemical irritants found in products like personal hygiene sprays or spermicidal jellies [3]. Cystitis can also develop due to other health conditions, such as diabetes or kidney stones [4].
How to get rid of cystitis fast
To get rid of cystitis quickly, it’s important to start treatment as soon as symptoms appear. Knowing how to get rid of cystitis fast can help prevent discomfort from worsening. Antibiotics are the most effective treatment for bacterial cystitis, and a doctor can prescribe these based on a urine test [1]. Common options, and often the best antibiotics for cystitis, include nitrofurantoin, cefalexin, trimethoprim, and fosfomycin [5]. Completing the full course of antibiotics is crucial to prevent the infection from returning [2].
At home, you can take several steps to relieve symptoms and speed up recovery:
- Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps flush out bacteria from your bladder [6].
- Pain relief: Over-the-counter painkillers like paracetamol, ibuprofen, and buscopan, an antispasmodic which is effective on the urinary tract, can help manage discomfort [1].
- Avoid bladder irritants: Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods until the infection clears [7].
- Apply heat: A hot water bottle on your lower abdomen can soothe pain [3].
If you’re wondering how to get rid of cystitis fast at home, these steps are your best approach. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, it’s essential to consult a doctor [4].
How to treat cystitis
Understanding how to treat cystitis involves both medical and home remedies. For immediate relief, antibiotics are the primary treatment and should be taken as prescribed [2]. What to take for cystitis includes these antibiotics, as well as pain relievers like ibuprofen to manage symptoms [1]. Drinking plenty of fluids is also important to help flush out the infection [6]. For those seeking how to get rid of cystitis at home, following these steps can provide relief.
Cystitis vs UTI: What's the difference?
Cystitis is a type of UTI, specifically a bladder infection. The difference between cystitis vs UTI is that while cystitis refers to bladder inflammation, a UTI can occur in any part of the urinary tract, including the kidneys (pyelonephritis), ureters, bladder (cystitis), or urethra (urethritis) [3].
Can a UTI go away by itself?
Some mild cases of UTIs, including cystitis, can go away on their own without treatment, especially if you drink plenty of fluids to help flush the bacteria out of your system [5]. However, untreated UTIs can lead to more serious infections, such as kidney infections, so it’s usually recommended to seek treatment, especially if symptoms are severe or persist [4]. If you’re dealing with cystitis and wondering can a UTI go away by itself, the answer is that while it might, it’s safer to seek treatment to avoid complications [6].
How to sleep with UTI discomfort
Sleeping with UTI discomfort can be challenging due to the frequent need to urinate and the pain or burning sensation during urination. To improve your sleep while dealing with a UTI, and specifically cystitis:
- Take pain relief before bed: Over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen can help reduce discomfort [1].
- Use a heating pad: Applying a heating pad to your lower abdomen before bed can soothe pain [7].
- Avoid fluids close to bedtime: While staying hydrated is important, try to limit fluid intake a few hours before bed to reduce the need to urinate during the night [3].
How HealthHero can help
If you’re dealing with cystitis or any symptoms of a UTI, HealthHero can help. Our online GP service offers quick and easy access to healthcare professionals who can diagnose your condition and prescribe the necessary treatments, including the best antibiotics for cystitis. This can help you get back to feeling better as soon as possible, without the need to wait for an in-person appointment [8].
Cystitis is a common and often uncomfortable condition, but with the right knowledge and quick action, you can manage it effectively.
