Explaining Cystitis Treatment in Simple Terms: The European Approach

Indeed, cold can in some cases contribute to the development of cystitis, but its true cause is a bacterial infection. Microbes attach to the walls of the bladder, begin to live and multiply at the expense of nutrients from the human body. This damages the mucous membrane of the bladder. Hypothermia reduces local immunity and facilitates the development of the disease, but it is not its primary source.

Typical symptoms of cystitis:

Frequent urinationBurning sensation during urinationUncontrollable urges to use the toiletFeeling of incomplete emptying of the bladder

According to statistics, almost half of women have had cystitis at least once in their lives. Let’s figure out why cystitis in women occurs more often than in men?

Firstly, due to obvious anatomical differences. The urethra (urinary canal) in women is much shorter, so infections can easily get into the bladder.

Secondly, up to 90% of cystitis cases are caused by the common E. coli. This microbe lives in our gastrointestinal tract. Due to the shortened perineum compared to men, the anal opening is closer to the urethra. This increases the risk of «throwing» bacteria into the urinary canal.

What factors increase the risk of developing cystitis?

HypothermiaSwimming in open water bodiesNew sexual partnerInsufficient intimate hygiene

How to treat cystitis? Of course, first of all, you need to see a doctor and rule out more serious diseases. Only a doctor can diagnose. But if you do not want to spend time and money on this — you can self-medicate at your own risk. Be sure to study the instructions for the drug before taking it!

According to the recommendations of the European Association of Urology, cystitis is treated with antimicrobial agents.

Among them, the first-choice drugs are:

1) Phosphomycin — destroys the cell walls of bacteria, «pops» them like balloons. As a result, the pathogens die.

2) Nitrofurantoin — disrupts the respiratory cycles of bacteria, leading to a halt in protein and DNA formation in them. Depending on the concentration, it can either inhibit the reproduction of the pathogen or kill it.

Why are these drugs good for treating cystitis? The European Association of Urology, before recommending treatment, put forward the following requirements for drugs:

Broad spectrum of action. That is, the ability to kill a large number of different types of microorganisms. This is necessary to prescribe a drug when the doctor does not know exactly which microbe caused the disease.Have effectiveness proven in clinical trialsBe well tolerated by the patient and show few side effectsHave a low price and be available in any country in the world

If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have chronic diseases — do not self-medicate under any circumstances and seek qualified help.

But what if you don’t trust your doctor? In this case, we advise you to read our article on checking doctors.

You can view the list of trade names of drugs here:— Phosphomycin— Nitrofurantoin