Cystitis is often considered a common problem for women. However, the truth is that men can also develop cystitis. While the incidence of cystitis in men is relatively low, when they do experience this condition, it can bring discomfort and distress.

What are the causes of cystitis in men?

Urinary tract infections: Urinary tract infections are one of the main causes of cystitis. Bacteria can enter the bladder through the urethra and cause an infection. The male urethra is relatively longer, making it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder and increasing the risk of developing cystitis.

Prostate issues: The prostate is a part of the male reproductive system located at the base of the bladder. If a man has prostatitis or prostate enlargement, it may result in urinary obstruction, increasing the likelihood of developing cystitis.

Urinary retention: Urinary retention refers to the inability to completely empty the bladder, leading to urine staying in the bladder. This condition can be caused by various factors, such as urethral obstruction, urethral stricture, or neurogenic bladder. Urinary retention increases the risk of bacterial growth and infection in the bladder.

Cystitis is a common bladder condition that affects many men. Understanding the common symptoms of cystitis is essential for early detection and treatment. If left untreated, it may lead to serious complications.

What are the symptoms of cystitis in men?

1. Burning sensation during urination: A burning sensation during urination is usually caused by inflammation and infection, such as cystitis and urinary tract infections. The passage of urine through the inflamed area can cause a burning sensation. If you experience this symptom, it is important to take it seriously, undergo testing, and seek timely treatment. Once the inflammation is resolved, this symptom can be relieved.

2. Urgency to urinate: Men with prostate issues are no strangers to symptoms like urgency and frequency of urination, and urgency is also a symptom of cystitis. Inflammation of the bladder affects urination, causing men to have a frequent urge to urinate but an inability to completely empty the bladder. Certain medications can help alleviate symptoms like urgency, but treating the inflammation is essential to overcome these symptoms.

3. Hematuria (blood in urine): With cystitis, the bladder tissues can become inflamed. As inflammation progresses, the likelihood of bleeding increases, and blood may be expelled along with the urine. The amount of blood in the urine and the severity of inflammation are related. Regardless, even if the amount of blood in the urine is minimal, it should still be examined.

4. Cloudy or foul-smelling urine: Under normal circumstances, urine should be colorless and have little odor. Any changes in the color and odor of urine may indicate a disease or inflammation. Besides causing hematuria, cystitis can also make the urine appear cloudy and have a foul odor. Inflammation and infection of the bladder can cause the urine to emit a strong odor and have a different appearance than normal. If this symptom occurs, the easiest way to identify the problem is through a urine test.

5. Lower abdominal tenderness: Men with cystitis may experience tenderness in the lower abdomen. Cystitis increases pressure and pain in the bladder. In addition to persistent lower abdominal tenderness, severe pain can also be felt. If inflammation is left untreated, the pain may become increasingly severe.

Cystitis is classified into acute cystitis and chronic cystitis, and regardless of the type, men should seek early treatment. Inflammatory conditions can also affect the immune system and increase the risk of other diseases. In addition to treating cystitis, ensuring proper sleep, maintaining a balanced diet, and boosting the immune system are important.

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