Factors that predispose an individual to bladder infections are poor hygiene, the use of perfumed of coloured hygiene products, antibiotic use, oral contraceptive use, catheter use, sexually transmitted diseases, stress and poor nutrition.

Symptoms of cystitis are urinary frequency and urgency with burning pain on urination.  Emptying the bladder may not relieve the symptoms.  The urine may be cloudy or “coke coloured”, due to the presence of blood.  Lab testing of the urine reveals the presence of bacteria.  Symptoms can be mild, with gradual onset or severe, with a quick onset.  Fever and lower back pain signal that the kidney is affected.  The symptoms of interstitial cystitis are the same but are usually recurring and lab testing is negative for bacteria.

Conventional treatment of cystitis involves the use of antibiotics to clear up the current infection.  However, the body becomes susceptible to subsequent infections if friendly bacteria are not replaced.  The overuse of antibiotics has also lead to antibiotic resistant strains of urinary tract pathogens.  Individuals can help to minimize resistance by using antibiotics sparingly and always taking prescriptions until they are finished.

To prevent cystitis proper hygiene is essential.  Do not use scented or coloured toilet paper or feminine hygiene products.  Douches, lubricants, latex condoms, spermicides and seminal fluid can also cause bladder irritation.  For women, always wipe from front to back when using the toilet and both partners should urinate as soon as possible after sexual intercourse.  Wear breathable cotton underwear.  Exercise the bladder by contracting the bladder muscles as you would to stop the flow of urine.  Repeat this several times a day.

Dietary interventions to prevent cystitis include drinking 2-2.5 litres of filtered water or unsweetened cranberry juice daily.  This flushes the urinary tract.

Cranberry juice inhibits bacterial growth and prevents the binding of the bacteria to the bladder wall.  Carrot and watermelon juices also flush the urinary tract.  Eat garlic for its antibacterial properties.  Avoid spicy foods, acidic foods, refined carbohydrates, sugar in all forms, coffee, black tea, tomatoes, spinach and yeast because they may irritate the bladder.  For interstitial cystitis maintain an alkaline diet.  Read the article entitled “Acid/Alkali balance” for more information. 

The following list of supplements can be used to prevent and treat urinary tract infections.  Adult doses are given.  (CLICK SUPPLEMENT NAME FOR PRODUCTS).