How long does cystitis last?

Cystitis is a common urinary tract infection (UTI) that often causes discomfort, particularly in women. If you're experiencing symptoms, you might be wondering, How long does cystitis last? The duration of cystitis can vary, depending on how it’s treated and whether you use antibiotics. In this article, we’ll explain how long cystitis typically lasts, how to treat it effectively, and how to prevent it from coming back.

Key Takeaways

Treatment Speeds Up Recovery

With antibiotics like Trimethoprim or Nitrofurantoin, cystitis symptoms often improve within 1-2 days, typically resolving in 3 to 7 days. Without antibiotics, the infection may last up to a week or more.

Common Symptoms of Cystitis

Cystitis symptoms include burning during urination, frequent urges to go, cloudy or foul-smelling urine, and lower abdominal pain. If untreated, it can lead to complications, such as kidney infections.

Prevention Tips

To prevent cystitis, urinate after sex, stay hydrated, avoid harsh soaps, wear cotton underwear, and wipe front to back. For those prone to recurrent UTIs, discussing contraceptive options with a doctor may also help reduce risk.

How Long Does Cystitis Last Without Treatment?

Cystitis can last for different lengths of time, depending on whether or not you treat it with antibiotics. If left untreated, cystitis may resolve on its own, as your body’s immune system works to fight off the infection. However, this can take up to a week or longer, and the symptoms may remain uncomfortable for the entire duration.

Without antibiotics, the infection can last for up to 7 days. It’s important to note that while your body may eventually clear the infection, the symptoms—such as stinging during urination, frequent and urgent need to urinate, and cloudy or foul-smelling urine—can continue to be painful and bothersome.

How Long Does Cystitis Last With Antibiotics?

If you choose to treat cystitis with antibiotics, the infection can be cleared up much more quickly. Antibiotics like Trimethoprim or Nitrofurantoin are commonly prescribed to treat cystitis. These antibiotics work by targeting the bacteria causing the infection, which helps to resolve the issue in a matter of days.

Most people begin to feel better within 1 to 2 days of starting antibiotics. The infection is typically cleared up after a 3 to 7-day course of antibiotics, depending on the specific medication prescribed and the severity of the infection.

Because antibiotics can clear the infection quickly, they are the preferred treatment for most people. Without antibiotics, cystitis may take longer to resolve and symptoms may last longer, which is why many people opt for antibiotic treatment.

Symptoms of Cystitis

Cystitis typically causes several uncomfortable symptoms, including:

• Burning or stinging sensation when urinating

• Urgency to urinate or needing to go more often than usual

• Cloudy, dark, or foul-smelling urine

• Pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen or pelvic area

• Feeling unwell or lethargic

These symptoms can range from mild to severe and can significantly affect your day-to-day life. If you notice these symptoms, it’s important to take action early, as untreated cystitis can potentially lead to more serious complications, such as kidney infections.

Why Are Women More Likely to Get Cystitis?

Women are more prone to cystitis than men due to the shorter length of their urethra, which makes it easier for bacteria to enter the urinary tract. The urethra is also located closer to the anus, which increases the chances of bacteria being transferred into the urinary tract. This anatomical difference contributes to the higher incidence of cystitis in women.

How to Treat Cystitis

Antibiotics

The most effective treatment for cystitis is a course of antibiotics prescribed by your doctor. Common antibiotics for treating cystitis include Trimethoprim and Nitrofurantoin, which are both fast-acting and clear the infection in just a few days.

If you’re looking to treat cystitis without a prescription, you can also use services like UK Meds, where you can fill out an online consultation form. A qualified prescriber will assess your case and arrange for the medication to be delivered to your door.

Over-the-Counter Pain Relief

In addition to antibiotics, you can also use over-the-counter painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen to help manage pain and discomfort. These can ease the burning sensation and any abdominal pain associated with cystitis.

Hydration and Home Remedies

One of the best ways to support your treatment is by staying hydrated. Drinking plenty of water helps flush out the bacteria from your urinary tract and can help reduce the discomfort caused by cystitis. You can also try drinking cranberry juice, as some studies suggest it may help prevent future UTIs, although the evidence for treating an active infection with cranberry juice is limited.

Other Helpful Products

For additional relief, you might consider using products like Cymalon, which is designed to ease the symptoms of cystitis and support the healing process. However, it’s important to consult your doctor before using any new product to ensure it’s right for you.

How to Prevent Cystitis

If you've had cystitis before, you’ll likely want to know how to avoid it in the future. There are several preventative measures you can take to reduce the risk of getting cystitis again:

1. Urinate After Sex

Sexual activity can introduce bacteria into the urethra, which may lead to cystitis. Always urinate after sex to help flush out any harmful bacteria.

2. Avoid Harsh Soaps and Products

Using heavily perfumed soaps, bubble baths, or feminine hygiene products can irritate the genital area and increase the risk of infection. Stick to gentle, unscented products and opt for showers instead of baths.

3. Wear Cotton Underwear

Synthetic fabrics can trap moisture, which creates an environment where bacteria thrive. Cotton underwear allows the area to breathe and helps prevent infections.

4. Don’t Hold Your Urine

Avoid holding your urine for extended periods, and always make sure to fully empty your bladder when you go to the toilet. This helps prevent bacteria from building up in your urinary tract.

5. Wipe Front to Back

When wiping after using the toilet, always wipe from front to back. This helps prevent bacteria from the anal area from spreading to the urethra.

6. Contraceptive Considerations

Certain forms of contraception, such as the diaphragm, can increase your risk of cystitis. If you’re prone to recurrent UTIs, it might be worth discussing alternative methods of contraception, such as the pill, patch or condoms.

Final Thoughts

Cystitis can be a painful and inconvenient condition, but with proper treatment, the infection can usually be resolved quickly. If treated with antibiotics, cystitis typically lasts 3 to 7 days. Without antibiotics, the infection may clear up on its own, but it can take up to a week or more. It’s important to take steps to treat cystitis promptly to avoid prolonged discomfort and potential complications.

By staying hydrated, following proper hygiene practices, and considering antibiotic treatment, you can help to speed up your recovery and reduce the chances of recurrence. If you’re experiencing symptoms of cystitis, seek advice from a healthcare provider to find the most suitable treatment for you.