Cystitis Flashcards
1
Q
What is cystitis (4)
A
- inflammation of the bladder
- usually caused by bacteria from the gastrointestinal tract that have gained access to the bladder through the urethra.
- The urethra is shorter in women than in men, which is why cystitis is much more common in females than males.
- Cystitis can be triggered by sexual intercourse, inserting a tampon or using a diaphragm for contraception.
2
Q
What factors increase the risk of developing cystitis (4)
A
- menopause
- diabetes
- pregnancy
- enlarged prostate (in men)
3
Q
What are the symptoms of cystitis (3)
A
- frequent urge to urinate
- pain, burning/stinging when urinating
- Dark, cloudy or strong-smelling urine
4
Q
Who with cystitis should be referred to the pharmacist (9)
A
- Children under 12 years (as it is rare in children)
- Pregnant women (since cystitis can have an effect on the unborn child)
- Men, especially elderly (can be related to prostate enlargement in the elderly)
- Any person suffering from cystitis for the first time
- Women with recurring cystitis (more than three times in the year)
- Women where symptoms of cystitis has lasted longer than three days
- Women with cystitis who have pain in the lower back
- Women with cystitis who have blood in the urine (haematuria)
- Women with cystitis who have a raised temperature
5
Q
What advice is there for cystitis (5)
A
- OTC pain killers (paracetamol, ibuprofen)
- Plenty fluids
- Avoid tea, coffee, fruit juices and alcohol
- Avoid sexual intercourse
- OTC Urine alkalising agents (potassium citrate, sodium citrate)
6
Q
How can you prevent recurrence of cystitis (9)
A
- Avoid scented soap in the vagina
- No perfumed bath products
- Urinate when you feel the urge
- Drink plenty water
- Empty the bladder fully
- Wipe from front to back
- Urinate after sex
- Avoid synthetic and tight underwear and trousers
- Avoid food and drink which irritate the bladder
