Cystitis treatment available online today
In order to treat your cystitis, consult with one of our doctors to develop a treatment plan today. Our doctors can order tests to the lab nearest you to test for cystitis and refer you to a specialist if needed. Get a new prescription for cystitis or refill an existing prescription, if you qualify.*
Book an appointment
Online consultation for Cystitis symptoms
Relieve pelvis pressure or discomfort
Personalized treatment for Cystitis
*Prescriptions are provided at the doctor's discretion. Learn more about our controlled substances policy and how to save up to 80% with our prescription discount card. PlushCare doctors cannot treat all cases of cystitis. Our primary care physicians can conduct an initial evaluation of your symptoms but may need to refer you to a specialist or for in-person treatment. If you are experiencing life-threatening symptoms, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
Learn about cystitis
Cystitis, or inflammation of the bladder, can occur due to a bladder infection. This is most commonly caused by a urinary tract infection (UTI) which is a type of bacterial infection. Cystitis is not usually a serious problem, but it can cause uncomfortable and annoying symptoms that can become harmful when left untreated.
Although bacterial cystitis is the most common, cystitis can sometimes have other causes. Noninfectious forms of cystitis include drug induced cystitis, interstitial cystitis, radiation cystitis, and chemical cystitis.
Cystitis causes
Cystitis most often is caused by bacterial infections. However, cystitis can also have noninfectious causes. Drug induced cystitis most often happens as a result of taking chemotherapy drugs, which can cause inflammation of bladder tissue.
Cystitis caused by radiation treatment is called radiation cystitis. The radiation therapy used to kill cancer cells can cause bladder irritation. Chemical cystitis occurs due to an increased sensitivity to certain chemicals, including those found in hygiene products.
Interstitial cystitis refers to chronic bladder inflammation, for which the underlying cause is unknown. Digestive and kidney diseases, including kidney stones are thought to be possible causes of interstitial cystitis. An enlarged prostate can also cause issues with the urinary system, including cystitis.
Cystitis symptoms
The symptoms of cystitis are hard to ignore because they’re so persistent and uncomfortable.
Symptoms can include:
Urinary urgency, where you feel a strong urge to urinate, but only small amounts of urine actually produced
A burning sensation while urinating
Cloudy and odorous urine
Pelvic pressure or discomfort
Low-grade fever
How to treat cystitis
If cystitis is caused by a bacterial bladder infection, antibiotics are prescribed as treatment. You will typically take antibiotics for 7-10 days. Do not stop your antibiotic treatment sooner than instructed, as this can lead to another infection and antibiotic resistant bacteria.
For noninfectious cystitis, medication may be prescribed to help relieve pain and other uncomfortable symptoms.
Cystitis medication
Antibiotics
Antibiotics can be used to treat bacterial cystitis.
Non-steroidal anti inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Antihistamines
How to prevent cystitis
Cystitis frequently occurs as a result of a urinary tract infection (UTI). Hygiene practices such as keeping genitals clean and dry, wiping from front to back after using the toilet, and changing undergarments frequently can help prevent urinary tract infections. Avoiding scented soaps, alcoholic and caffeinated drinks, and sugary foods or drinks may help as well.
When to see a doctor for cystitis
You should see a doctor if mild to moderate cystitis symptoms do not clear up in a couple of days, or if you are experiencing severe symptoms such as blood in urine or a fever. If you suspect you have bacterial cystitis, you should see a doctor to get a proper diagnosis and prescription antibiotics if needed.
Cystitis treatment FAQs
What is the best treatment for cystitis?
For bacterial cystitis, the best treatment is a course of antibiotics, which can be prescribed by one of our trusted, board-certified physicians online.
What is the best medicine for cystitis?
For bacterial infections, antibiotics are the best medicine for cystitis. For noninfectious cystitis, symptoms may resolve on their own, but if not, you should see a doctor for further diagnosis and treatment options.
How do I know if I have cystitis?
The only way to truly know if you have cystitis is to consult with a doctor for a diagnosis. They can order tests including a urine test to find out if you have cystitis, so that you can get the right treatment.
Will cystitis go away on its own?
For cystitis caused by a bacterial infection, you will likely need antibiotics. For noninfectious cystitis, the condition may resolve on its own, but if you experience severe, lingering symptoms, you should speak to a doctor about treatment options. It is important to consult with a licensed doctor to confirm the diagnosis and cause of your cystitis.
What is the fastest way to get rid of cystitis?
If you have bacterial cystitis, the fastest way to get rid of it is for a doctor to prescribe you antibiotics. For noninfectious cystitis, you may need to treat the underlying disease, if it is due to an autoimmune disease. For symptom management, non-steroidal anti inflammatory medications and other pain relievers can help.
Is there over-the-counter medication for cystitis?
There are some over-the-counter options that can help determine the cause of your infection and make your symptoms more manageable such as AZO test strips, AZO Urinary Pain Relief Maximum Strength Tablets, AZO Urinary Tract Defense, Cystex with cranberry, and Ibuprofen.
How serious is cystitis?
If symptoms of cystitis go untreated, a kidney infection may occur. The symptoms of a kidney infection include fever and chills, nausea and vomiting, shooting pains in the back and/or side. If you have these symptoms see a doctor right away.
What is the difference between a UTI and cystitis?
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a type of infection of the urinary tract that can cause conditions such as cystitis. Cystitis is not an infection, but a condition that refers to inflammation of the bladder.
3 simple steps to request treatment for cystitis today
Step 1
Book a cystitis treatment appointment.
Book a same day appointment from anywhere.
Step 2
Talk to your medical provider regarding your cystitis symptoms.
Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.
Step 3
Pick up a prescription for cystitis treatment.
We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.
Related conditions to cystitis
Cystitis treatment pricing details
How pricing works
To request treatment for cystitis and get a new or refill on your prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.
Paying with insurance
Membership
$16.99/month
First month free
Visits
Copay
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Visit price with insurance
Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!
- We accept these insurance plans and many more:
Paying without insurance
Membership
$16.99/month
First month free
Visits
$129
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Visit price without insurance
Initial visits are $129.
If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund.
Cystitis treatment resources
Sources:
PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.
Mayo Clinic: "Cystitis - Diagnosis and Treatment." Mayo Clinic. Accessed on December 14, 2023, at https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cystitis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20371311.
Cleveland Clinic: "Acute Cystitis." Cleveland Clinic. Accessed on December 14, 2023, at https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24450-acute-cystitis.
American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP): "Diagnosis and Treatment of Acute Uncomplicated Cystitis." AAFP. Accessed on December 14, 2023, at https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2011/1001/p771.html.
PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.