uncomplicated Cystitis caused by Escherichia coli
Uncomplicated Cystitis Caused by Escherichia coli
Uncomplicated cystitis is a type of urinary tract infection (UTI) which mainly originates from the bacteria Escherichia coli, otherwise known as E. coli. UTIs occur when E. Coli or other bacteria invade the urinary tract, which includes the urethra, bladder, and ureters. Uncomplicated cystitis is the most common type of UTI and usually only affects the bladder.
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are the most common type of infection in the body, accounting for roughly 8 million visits to the doctor per year in the United States alone. About two thirds of these visits are due to uncomplicated cystitis.
What Causes Uncomplicated Cystitis?
The most common cause of uncomplicated cystitis is a bacterial infection of the bladder. Of the different types of bacteria which can cause a UTI, Escherichia coli is by far the most common cause of uncomplicated cystitis. E. coli is an aerobic bacteria; it thrives in oxygen-rich environments such as the human bladder. This bacterium can be found in almost any environment, including the human intestine, soil, sewage, and surface water.
Symptoms of Uncomplicated Cystitis
- Frequent and urgent need to urinate
- Pain or discomfort when urinating
- A burning sensation in the bladder or urethra
- Fever or chills
- Nausea or vomiting
- Pain in the lower abdomen or back
Treatment of Uncomplicated Cystitis
The treatment for uncomplicated cystitis caused by E. coli depends on the severity of the infection. Mild cases usually do not require specific treatment, as the infection will go away on its own. In more severe cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the infection. It’s important to finish the entire course of antibiotics even if symptoms subside quickly, as this helps prevent the infection from recurring.
In addition to antibiotics, there are a number of home remedies that can be used to relieve the symptoms of uncomplicated cystitis. These include drinking lots of fluids, taking a hot shower or bath, taking over-the-counter pain medication, avoiding coffee and alcohol, and emptying the bladder whenever possible.
Prevention of Uncomplicated Cystitis
The best way to prevent uncomplicated cystitis caused by E. coli is to practice good hygiene. This includes always wiping from front to back after using the toilet, and avoiding douching and using scented feminine hygiene products. Women should also urinate soon after sexual intercourse, as this helps flush out any bacteria which may have been introduced.