Cystitis in men is a very painful inflammation of the bladder. Hence, it may not lead to serious concerns if treated quickly. Having unprotected anal sex increases the chances of men having this.
1. Signs
This condition may signal the presence of other problems. Therefore it is best to see a doctor first if you notice symptoms. They can help identify its main cause. The signs you to look out for are:
- Pain when you pee
- Burning feeling when you pee
- Peeing often with only small amounts coming out
- Frequent urge to pee
- Pee that is dark and has a strong smell
- Blood in your pee
- Pain in your lower belly
- Back Pain
- Pain in the abdomen
- Feeling tired
- Fever
Most men who have acute cystitis will not experience any harmful long-term effects. However, some will experience it recurringly. It can damage your kidneys if left untreated. Some may have this condition without experiencing any symptoms at all. Also, it is very common in older adults.
2. Causes
Bacteria cause cystitis in men in the bladder. They can multiply there and irritate the organ. It may be the result of not peeing properly. It may also stem from irritation to the part of the penis where urine comes out. Bacteria carried from the anus to the urine tube may also result in it.
Other causes include certain medicines. Peeing helps remove harmful stuff in the body. Some medicine remains can irritate your organs. Radiation therapy in your pelvic part may also cause this. Chemical-caused is the result of exposure to products that contain a lot of fragrance.
3. Risk Factors
Cystitis is more common in women. It is because of the position of their sexual organs. However, men can get it if they do/have the following:
- Using catheters
- Bladder stones
- Enlarged prostate
- Weak immune system
- Holding pee for a long time
- Unprotected anal sex
4. Diagnosis
Moreover, it is advisable to contact your doctor once you notice signs. Doctors will ask about your medical history as well as your recent activities. They will also perform several tests. They can take a small sample of your pee. After that, it will identify if there is a presence of bacteria and its type. Doctors may also insert a tube in your genitals. Also, it contains a camera to help them check for the condition of it. They may also collect samples. Lastly, they can do an ultrasound or X-ray. Therefore, it will provide a picture of the structure around your organ. Also, it will help them identify if there is another condition that might be causing cystitis.
5. Treatment
Acute Cystitis will clear up within a few days in most cases. You have to drink a lot of water. It may also be best to avoid sex at least until after all the signs have cleared. Hence, call your doctor if the pain becomes too much for you. They will recommend medicines for pain relief.
You can also do certain cystitis treatments at home. First, make sure you are hydrated. Drink at least eight glasses of water a day. Hence, it helps flush out harmful organisms. It also dilutes your pee. Peeing will then be less painful.
Cranberry juice is said to help with uncomfortable symptoms. Look for those that do not contain added sugar and are all-natural. Stay away from it if you are taking in blood thinners. It may only result in bleeding. You can also put heating pads in parts of your body that are painful and will soothe it. Follow the directions to avoid burning yourself. You can make a warm compress if you do not have heating pads. Just soak a towel in warm water.
6. Prevention
The best cystitis treatment is prevention. Reduce your chances of having it by practicing safe sex. It is good to pee as soon as possible after sex. Likewise, it will remove any bacteria. Avoid using perfumed materials around your genitals. These may irritate them. As much as possible, clean the area gently with warm water. Pee properly when you go to the toilet. Pee immediately if you feel like doing it. Additionally, it will prevent stress in your bladder. Too much stress can lead to infections.
