Cystitis is a bladder infection. Bladder infections are common in women. About 10 to 20 percent of all women get at least one bladder infection. They may also occur in children, more often in girls. In younger men and children bladder infections often relate to abnormal anatomy or function. Therefore, these patients require a very careful check up. Bladder infections pose a risk of kidney infection that can be quite serious.

Most urinary tract infections result from germs rising up the urethra. We all have fecal and other germs residing near the urethra. They are normally kept at bay by our immune defenses. Passing urine also acts to flush germs out. Women are more likely to get an infection because the female urethra is shorter. Prostate fluid also protects men. Some factors that contribute to infection are:
* irritation from sexual intercourse,
* bladder stones that block urine flow and irritate linings,
* a swollen prostate gland,
* pregnancy,
* nerve problems in the bladder,
* having a catheter in the urethra,
* using a diaphragm and spermicide for birth control, or
* a family history or urinary tract infections.

A person with a urinary tract infection may have the following symptoms:
* urgent and frequent need to urinate,
* a hard time urinating,
* pain or a feeling of warmth during urination,
* cramps in the bladder,
* discharge from the urethra in men,
* blood in the urine,
* low back pain, or
* tenderness over the bladder area.

High counts of bacteria in urine confirm a bladder infection. Tests on blood and any discharge help rule out venereal disease. Most infections respond well to antibiotic treatment. However, repeat cases are possible. Repeat infections due to infected stones or prostate problems may require surgery. There is also a risk of a flare up of drug resistant germs. Kidney infection could lead to high blood pressure or kidney failure. It is therefore important to prevent chronic bladder infections.

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