Cystitis is a type of urinary tract infection (UTI) which is very common, particularly in women. It may be also referred to as a water infection, urine infection or inflammation of the bladder. It is thought that half of all women in the UK will suffer at least one episode of UTI in their lifetime.
Although it may be painful and uncomfortable, it usually passes within a few days or it can be treated easily with certain medications such as painkillers or antibiotics. As UTIs are less common in men and have increased risks, therefore Cystitis in men should be investigated before commencing treatment.
UTI is a bacterial infection of the urinary tract. The urinary tract is made up of the kidneys, the ureters, the bladder, the urethra and is where our bodies make and get rid of urine. It more commonly affects the lower urinary tract (bladder and urethra) but in some cases may affect the upper urinary tract (kidney infection) and in some the infection may spread from one to the other. Cystitis is classed as a lower urinary tract infection that mainly infects the bladder.
