Cystitis

Overview

Cystitis is a common urinary tract infection (UTI) that affects the bladder. It happens when bacteria (most often E. coli) travel up the urethra and multiply in the bladder lining, causing painful inflammation.

While mild cases sometimes improve on their own, many infections need antibiotics to clear properly and to stop the bacteria spreading to the kidneys. With the right treatment, most people feel better within 24–48 hours.

Cystitis is much more common in women due to a shorter urethra, though men can also develop UTIs, often requiring a longer course of antibiotics.

Symptoms

Typical symptoms of cystitis include:

• Burning or stinging when passing urine
• Needing to urinate more often or urgently
• Lower abdominal discomfort or pressure
• Cloudy, strong-smelling urine
• Blood in the urine (sometimes)
• In severe cases: fever, chills, or back pain (possible kidney infection – seek urgent help)

Diagnosis

Most cases of cystitis are diagnosed based on symptoms and medical history. A urine sample may be tested to confirm infection or identify the bacteria involved, especially if:

• The infection is recurrent
• Symptoms are severe
• First-line antibiotics haven’t worked

At SwiftMedi, our prescribers will review your online consultation to decide on the safest, most effective treatment.

Treatments

Cystitis is usually treated with a short course of antibiotics, which clear the infection quickly and prevent complications.

Commonly prescribed options include:

• Nitrofurantoin - the most widely recommended first-line antibiotic, concentrated in the bladder for targeted action.
• Trimethoprim - another trusted antibiotic option, often used if nitrofurantoin isn’t suitable.

Alongside antibiotics, simple pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen may help reduce discomfort.

Most people notice an improvement within 1-2 days, but it’s important to complete the full course of treatment.

Prevention

If you suffer from recurrent cystitis, a few lifestyle changes may help lower the risk:

• Drink plenty of water to flush bacteria from the bladder.
• Go to the toilet as soon as you feel the urge — don’t hold it in.
• Wipe front to back to avoid spreading bacteria.
• Empty your bladder after sex.
• Wear cotton underwear and avoid tight clothing.
• Avoid perfumed soaps or bubble baths that may irritate the urinary tract.

Misconceptions

“Cystitis is always caused by poor hygiene.”
Not true - even with good hygiene, bacteria can still cause infection.

“It’s just a mild infection - it’ll clear on its own.”
Sometimes it will, but antibiotics are often needed for reliable and fast relief.

“Only women get cystitis.”
Women are more likely to get it, but men can also develop cystitis, usually needing a longer course of antibiotics.

“Cranberry juice can cure cystitis.”
There’s little evidence it cures infections. Staying hydrated does help, but cranberry juice alone won’t clear a UTI.