This inflammation of the bladder lining is caused by irritation or damage to the urethra, most commomly by E.coli bacteria entering the urinary tract through the urethra. Bacteria stick to the bladder wall and multiply, causing inflammation and irritation.
You’ll feel the need to urinate frequently but only pass a small amount of cloudy urine, and it will sting or burn when you pee.
It’s more common in women than men because we have a shorter urethra (the tube leading out of the bladder).
Mild cystitis will often go away by itself but if it doesn’t. you may need antibiotics.
Untreated cystitis can become serious if infection spreads to your kidneys, so see your GP if you still have sumptoms after three days.