Seasonal Impact on Cystitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Management

Description of the Seasonality of the Disease

What Is Cystitis?

Cystitis is an inflammation of the bladder. Chronic cystitis refers to bladder inflammation that does not resolve even with treatment for several weeks, or when episodes of acute cystitis recur more than twice in half a year.

Seasonal Influence on Cystitis

Cystitis exhibits seasonality, which can influence the occurrence and exacerbation of the disease during certain times of the year.

Causes of the Disease

Infectious Origins

Typically, chronic cystitis is of infectious origin, caused by various bacteria. The most common causative agent is Escherichia coli (intestinal bacteria), which enters the bladder through the urethra.

Non-Infectious Cystitis

In rarer cases, non-infectious cystitis occurs due to the use of certain medications, radiation, or hygiene products (acting as irritants causing inflammation).

Who Is More Frequently Affected?

Anatomical Reasons

It has been observed that women are more frequently affected by cystitis. Anatomical features make it easier for bacteria to enter the bladder in women, as the female urethral opening is very close to the vagina.

Hormonal Factors

Additionally, hormonal factors play a role, with infections occurring more frequently in women after menopause.

Secondary Infections

Chronic cystitis is most often secondary, meaning the infection constantly recurs due to various urinary system diseases.

Seasonality and Exacerbation

Cold Seasons and Infections

Seasonality can also influence the exacerbation of cystitis. People are more prone to catching colds in autumn and winter. This seasonal vulnerability increases the likelihood of infections. As a result, there is a higher tendency for bladder inflammation during these times.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Common Symptoms

Symptoms of cystitis include a frequent urge to urinate and painful urination with a burning sensation. Patients may also experience abdominal or lower back pain. The body temperature is typically normal or slightly elevated.

Diagnostic Tests

To confirm the diagnosis, urine tests are performed to detect leukocytes, sometimes erythrocytes (red blood cells), and bacteria. In the case of chronic cystitis, cystoscopy is also recommended to identify the cause of recurrent inflammation.

Treatment and Seasonality Management

Medical Treatment

After determining the cause of the disease, doctors eliminate it and prescribe antibacterial treatment. It is important to properly treat disease exacerbations, as the infection can spread to the kidneys and cause pyelonephritis. If cystitis recurs after sexual intercourse, it is advisable to take antibiotics before and after intercourse, and to urinate after sexual activity.

Seasonal Management

During colder months, manage the seasonality of cystitis by taking additional measures such as wearing warm clothing, drinking plenty of fluids, and avoiding colds. It is also important to maintain proper hygiene. These measures can help reduce the risk of developing or exacerbating cystitis during seasonal changes.