Urinary tract infections are very common. They are responsible for over 6 million patient visits to doctors per year in the United States. These include over 2 million cases that are attributed to cystitis which is the most common urinary tract infection. Cystitis can be defined as an inflammation of the bladder and it may result in pain and discomfort. Women tend to suffer from this condition more than men, although the chance of men acquiring cystitis increases with age. Untreated cystitis can lead to kidney infection, even kidney damage. Treatment for cystitis ranges from over-the counter medications to antibiotics if the cause is an infection.peer-reviewe
