Beyond Kidney Deficiency: Recognizing the Symptoms That Could Point to Cystitis

In everyday life, frequent urination after drinking water and a constant urge to urinate are often mistaken for kidney deficiency. However, these symptoms may actually indicate a condition known as cystitis, a common urinary tract infection primarily affecting the bladder's lining.

Cystitis can stem from various causes, including bacterial infections, stones, or tumors. Its symptoms are diverse, and some of the most common indicators of urinary discomfort include:

1. Frequent Urination: This involves a persistent need to urinate more often than usual, sometimes as frequently as every few minutes, leading to exhaustion and disruption of daily activities.

2. Urinary Urgency: Patients may experience an uncontrollable and immediate need to urinate, which can last for hours and severely impact work and rest.

3. Painful Urination: A burning or painful sensation during urination, sometimes lingering after the act, can make the process uncomfortable or even create a fear of urination.

4. Dark Urine: The urine may appear darker, occasionally containing blood due to inflammation damaging the urethral mucous membrane.

5. Blood in Urine: The presence of blood in urine, often a sign of severe cystitis, requires immediate medical attention and can lead to complications like anemia.

If you experience these symptoms, a visit to the urology department is essential to determine if cystitis is the cause. Traditional Chinese medicine like Diuretic and Anti-inflammatory Pill can be effective in treating these symptoms by clearing heat, detoxifying, and inducing diuresis. Additionally, antibiotics such as quinolones or cephalosporins can be used based on the causative organism.

Cystitis, known for causing urinary discomfort, also presents with several other symptoms that can impact daily life:

1. Lower Abdominal Discomfort: This can be a constant or intermittent sensation of discomfort or pain in the lower abdomen. While it may lessen after urination, the discomfort can sometimes persist. This ongoing lower abdominal discomfort can disrupt daily activities and diminish the quality of life.

2. Low Back Pain: A common complaint is low back pain or discomfort, which can be either continuous or episodic. This pain might be a result of the inflammation spreading to the kidneys or other areas of the body. Chronic low back pain can lead to issues with mobility, sleep disturbances, and other health concerns.

3. Fever and Chills: Systemic symptoms, including fever and chills, often suggest a more serious stage of the condition, necessitating immediate medical attention. These symptoms can leave a patient feeling weak and drained, weakening overall bodily resistance.

To prevent cystitis, people should consider the following tips:

1. Maintain Hygienic Practices: Hygiene is crucial both during sexual activities and after using the restroom. Ensuring cleanliness of the urethral area is essential to prevent bacterial growth and subsequent infection. Regularly washing or wiping the area is important. Additionally, it's advised to frequently change, wash, and sterilize underwear and other garments using hot water for effective disinfection.

2. Manage Urination Habits and Hydration: Avoid delaying urination, as retaining urine can adversely affect the bladder and increase the risk of inflammation. Urinate as soon as the urge arises. It's also beneficial to drink sufficient water daily. This practice helps in more frequent urination, which in turn aids in flushing out the urethra and reducing the likelihood of bacterial growth.

3.Use Mild Personal Care Products: Choose personal care products, especially for bathing, that are gentle and non-irritating to minimize the risk of bladder irritation. Additionally, avoid using potentially harmful deodorants or sprays in the vaginal area, as these can exacerbate the risk of bacterial infections. Opting for products that are friendly to sensitive areas can significantly help in preventing cystitis.

Cystitis symptoms can significantly affect life quality. Prompt medical examination and treatment are crucial to prevent worsening of the condition or the onset of complications.