Symptoms of Cystitis
Symptoms of cystitis often develop rapidly and range from mildly uncomfortable to severely painful, depending on the individual and the underlying cause. While cystitis is most commonly associated with urinary tract infections, the inflammation it causes produces a set of hallmark symptoms that typically prompt people to seek medical attention.
Urinary Symptoms
The most common signs include:
Burning or stinging sensation when urinating (dysuria)
Frequent urge to urinate, even when little urine is passed
Urgency, or a strong need to urinate immediately
Cloudy urine that may have a strong, unpleasant smell
Haematuria, or the presence of blood in the urine
Passing small amounts of urine frequently
These symptoms are typically the most prominent and persistent features of acute cystitis.
Pain and Discomfort | Symptoms of Cystitis
Cystitis can cause a dull ache or pain in the lower abdomen, pelvic area, or lower back. This discomfort often increases with bladder filling and may ease slightly after urination.
Systemic Symptoms
Although cystitis is typically confined to the bladder, it can cause generalised symptoms such as:
Fatigue
Low-grade fever
Feeling generally unwell
If the infection spreads beyond the bladder, especially to the kidneys, symptoms may include:
High fever
Nausea or vomiting
Chills or flank pain
These are warning signs and require immediate medical attention.
Symptoms in Special Populations
Children may present with bedwetting, fever, or irritability rather than classic urinary symptoms
Older adults, particularly those with dementia, may show signs like confusion or sudden behavioural changes
Chronic or Recurrent Symptoms
People with interstitial cystitis (a chronic non-infectious form) may experience:
Ongoing pelvic pain
Persistent urinary urgency and frequency
Worsening symptoms with certain foods or stress
In summary, symptoms of cystitis often include painful urination, increased frequency, and abdominal discomfort. Prompt recognition allows for early treatment and reduces the risk of complications such as kidney infections.
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