Friend,
There is no denying that our lives are hectic: work, home, children, dogs, cats, goldfish… You name it!
In short, you may face difficult times when you feel stressed. The problem, however, is that this continuous state of pressure can lead to the onset of infections, such as cystitis.
Well, yes.
At some point your body asks you for a break, and that’s where you need to stop and listen. ❤️
But there is good news: you are not alone in this challenge, so now we will see how to do it together.
Happy reading. 🌸
Suffering from recurrent cystitis is frustrating enough on its own, especially if you do not understand what the root cause is. Which makes it more complicated, since knowing the causes is often a first step in managing the symptoms.
How else would one know where to start? 🤷🏼♀️
Generally, cystitis is caused by an infection for which bacteria are primarily responsible (except for abacterial cystitis).
To make matters worse, it is believed that stress can have a negative impact on the immune system and thus make us more susceptible to infections.
In short, a cakewalk! 🙄
But what’s worse is that stress would also have a major influence in cases of interstitial cystitis, meaning that it could worsen urinary tract symptoms even in the absence of an infection.
So, are we ruined? 🫣
No, my dear, because there is always a solution to everything.
Although stress can play an important role in the onset of cystitis it is possible, in many cases, to work to change dietary and lifestyle habits so as to reduce the possibility of infection.
Oh, wow, and how do you do that?
Let’s look at it now, starting with a deeper analysis of the causes of the combination of stress and cystitis. 🫡
Read also: Cystitis and pink discharge: what does it mean if you notice blood in your urine?
The link between stress and cystitis is not commonly recognized by the conventional medical community, although research is still ongoing.
In fact, it is worth keeping in mind that there are a number of possible mechanisms at play when it comes to stress and cystitis.
Let’s look at some of them.
In times of stress, it is a common mistake to make poor choices regarding diet.
To put it bluntly, you are less likely to remember to reach your daily quota of two liters of water if you are running from one side to the other, just as you will be much more likely to consume drinks high in sugar, caffeine, and alcohol and to choose convenience foods to save time.
The reason?
This is a protective mechanism, as the body assumes that it is necessary to have blood glucose available to get through the day in a frenzy.
But I have bad news.
Unfortunately, the foods mentioned just now are low in nutrients and risk dehydrating you further or feeding any infections.
So, the first thing to do is to carve out time to eat healthier, more balanced meals and drink lots-but lots-of water.
During times of stress, immune function may suffer, making you more susceptible to infection.
Hurray! 🫠
It is therefore necessary for the immune system to be in excellent condition to detect any bad bacteria that might take hold and cause an infection, such as cystitis.
During times of stress, the sympathetic nervous system becomes dominant, and this can have direct negative effects on the digestive system and urinary tract.
Let me explain further.
In times of tension, the body tries to empty the bladder and clear the bowels to allow you to be in the best possible physical condition.
This means that you will most likely need to go to the bathroom more often than normal, and often with greater urgency. But the point is that suffering from chronic stress could prove problematic in the long run and cause continuous irritation.
In addition to the physical effects of stress, could there also be a chemical influence?
In short, yes.
During times when we are under pressure we release a number of ‘stress’ hormones (to be exact) and this may play a role in the onset of symptoms of interstitial cystitis and overactive bladder.
In addition to the physical and chemical influences of stress, it appears that pain sensitivity may also increase during these periods.
This means that, unfortunately, you may be much more aware of different discomforts and feel more sensitive to pain and discomfort.
In short, a complete disaster. 😩
Fighting cystitis is not impossible if you pay attention to certain aspects:
Also, it is important to make sure that it is indeed cystitis, and for that, I leave you with a complete guide where I explain what tests you will need to take.
In addition, we girls at Dimann have come up with a complete and comprehensive quiz for you to help you determine the causes of your cystitis.
At this point you’re probably wondering what the solution is, right?
The answer, as I anticipate, is only one: D-mannose.
Unlike antibiotics, Dimann-branded products harness the benefits of D-mannose to fight (and hinder) cystitis but without affecting the intestinal flora. By following the right dosage, in fact, you can expel the ‘bad’ bacteria as you pee and finally defeat this infection.
If you have any questions about this, please know that I am here to help you at any time.
I give you a big hug,
Lorenza
Read also: How long after cystitis can you have intercourse?