cystitis

INFLAMMATION of the bladder, normally caused by bacterial infection, the causal organism usually being ESCHERICHIA coli. It is marked by the need to pass URINE frequently, accompanied by a burning sensation. The condition is common in females and is usually not serious but there is a danger that the infection may spread to the kidneys. The prevalence of the condition in women is because the URETHRA is much shorter than in men and the bacteria (which are present and harmless in the bowel) are more likely to gain access to both the urinary tract and the vagina. Treatment is by means of antibiotics and also by drinking a lot of fluid.