What Is Cystitis?
Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky
4. Irritant Cystitis
In the same way that abrasions, cuts, and chemicals can irritate the skin, various environmental factors also inflame parts of the urinary system. Soaps, perfumes, and bubble baths can all cause urinary pain. Nicotine is a known bladder irritant, and smokers are at increased risk of several urinary problems.
Catheters rub against the urethra and may create small cuts in its lining. Besides allowing microorganisms to cause infections, the lesions turn into papillary-polypoid cystitis, a condition observed in middle-aged men who use catheters frequently or for long periods. Radiation also can damage the bladder and causes similar symptoms.
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