Cystitis and the Urinary System

The body is like a machine. It consumes energy (from breakdown of food products) to carry out function (homeostasis- the perfect state of “Life”), and in so doing produces waste products that must be removed. If the waste products are not eliminated, the “machine” becomes “clogged” up and function ceases.

The kidney, ureters, urinary bladder and urethra make up the Urinary System of the body. Its function is to eliminate soluble waste materials from metabolism of food and water consumed and when this becomes compromised we experience symptoms such as acidity (gout etc), kidney discomfort and bladder ailments.

As well as inadequate waste elimination cystitis can result from infection or an irritation of the bladder, due to antibiotics, stress, food allergies, poor hygiene, overuse of bubble baths and talcum powder, nylon clothing, oral and barrier contraception, or sexual intercourse. Without treatment, a serious kidney infection can develop.

Symptoms include a frequent urge to urinate with burning or stinging sensations, and sometimes aching in the bladder area. Offensive-smelling, cloudy, or discolored urine may be passed.

For acute symptoms repeat the indicated remedy often. If there is no improvement after a few doses consider another remedy and be prepared to seek professional help especially in very uncomfortable or long-lasting urinary tract infections accompanied by fever, pain in the kidney region, or other serious symptoms.

Recurring symptoms, three or more infections in a year, should be investigated by a urologist to eliminate complications such as structural anomalies, chronic stones etc.

Possible remedies for symptomatic relief:

Aconite: Sudden onset with anxiety. After becoming cold and chilled or after a shock. Urine may be suppressed or scanty.

Apis: Constant urge. Burning and severe stinging pains. Increased volume of urine. Thirstless.

Belladonna: Sudden onset. Intense pain, fever.

Cantharis: Most indicated remedy. Burning pain and constant desire but can only pass a few drops. Sharp pains before and during urination.

Ferrum phos: For the first stage of cystitis. Frequent urination (or it may be suppressed) and feels ‘off colour’.

Nux vomica: An irritable, impatient, chilly person with an irritable bladder and constant need to urinate.

Sepia: Worn out, irritable and dragged down feeling. Frequent urination, involuntary leaking.

Staphysagria: Burning before and during urination. ‘Honeymoon cystitis’ after new or frequent sexual activity.

For the health of the urinary system It is very important to empty the bladder whenever the urge is felt. To avoid later problems with urinary and prostate function “holding it’ is strongly advised against. Emptying the bladder before activity such as bicycling, sex, gym exercises reduces urethral pressure and therefore irritation.