Cystitis is inflammation of the urinary bladder, which in most cases is due to a bacterial infection (usually p or Escherichia coli), and it usually manifests itself with urgency to urinate, pain or burning when doing so, and discomfort in the lower abdomen.

It is estimated that around half of women (between 37% and 50%) will experience at least one episode of cystitis. throughout their life; the highest incidence is observed between 18 and 39 years, especially in premenopausal women.

In this regard, Dr. Carmen González Enguita, president of the Spanish Association of Urology, interviewed by EFE Salud, shared fundamental recommendations to avoid cis bacterial titis, such as the importance of completely emptying the bladder when urinating and going to the bathroom frequently. These practices can minimize the formation of urinary tract infections.

The anatomical characteristics of women, such as the closeness between the rectum, the vagina and the urethra, favor the proliferation of ba cterias, which increases the risk. In addition, factors such as low fluid consumption aggravate the situation, contributing to cystitis.

Risk factors that increase infection

Sexual intercourse and hormonal changes during menopause are identified as elements that increase susceptibility to cystitis.

Other conditions are also mentioned, such as humidity and prolonged use of wet swimsuits.

The urologist emphasizes that treatment should not be limited to antibiotics and vaccines, but should include a comprehensive evaluation of the habits. cough of life. Supplements such as cranberry and probiotics are recommended to help in prevention, along with proper urination guidelines.

The doctor explains that in this type of infection, especially if it is repeated, it is necessary to do a urine culture to know if it is Escherichia coli the bacteria that is causing it or it is another, collects EFE.

Vaccines against cystitis

“The vaccines against cystitis are not a treatment”, González Enguita specifies. “The vaccine is a drug to prevent” urine infections, he emphasizes.

However, these preventive vaccines are not valid for all cases, only in those people who meet the criteria for recurrent cystitis.

“And also when they have had many antibiotic treatments,” he adds.

According to the urologist, “the vaccine for cystitis is indicated when the criteria are met in repetition line and when there is an episode. or that allows to take a urine sample” that determines the type of bacteria that it has at that moment and as a result of that generates the vaccine.

“I compare them to the flu vaccine, every year we have to get vaccinated because the serotypes of the virus are different.” Something similar happens with the cystitis vaccine, he explained.

Diet and nutrition in the prevention of cystitis

Diet and nutrition play an important role in preventing cystitis, especially by reducing the risk of urinary tract infections and improving the health of the urinary and intestinal tract.

Hydration and urinary flow

Drinking enough water helps “flush” the urinary tract, diluting the urine and promoting the elimination of bacteria that could insta latch on the bladder. In general, consumption of at least 1.5–2 liters of liquids daily, unless medically contraindicated, is recommended.

Protective foods

Food and drinks to moderate

Some foods and drinks can irritate the bladder or encourage bacterial growth, so it's recommended limiting them if you have recurrent cystitis:

General role of a good diet

A diet based mainly on vegetables, fruits, whole cereals, legumes, lean proteins and water, together with good weight management and physical activity, contributes to a immune system strong and with a lower frequency of urinary infections. This does not replace treatment with antibiotics when infectious cystitis appears, but it can reduce recurrences and improve quality of life.

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