Is drinking more water helpful for cystitis?

Mar 19, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I am a 30-year-old female. Recently, I have experienced frequent urination, urgency, and painful urination, and I suspect I may have developed cystitis. I heard that drinking more water may help alleviate the symptoms. Could you please confirm whether increasing water intake is indeed effective?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Cao Zhiqiang

Drinking more water usually helps alleviate symptoms of cystitis. Increasing fluid intake can dilute urine, reduce bacterial concentration in the urine, and thus relieve irritation and inflammation. In addition, frequent urination helps flush the urethra, expelling bacteria from the body and reducing the chance of infection. Drinking more water can also promote the elimination of toxins from the body and accelerate the recovery process.

However, drinking more water alone cannot cure cystitis. It can only alleviate symptoms and promote recovery. Patients are advised to increase their daily fluid intake, drinking at least eight glasses of water per day. Avoid consuming irritating beverages such as coffee, alcohol, and carbonated drinks, as these may worsen symptoms. Maintain good personal hygiene, especially cleanliness of the genital area, to reduce bacterial growth. Seek timely medical attention and use antibiotics or other medications as directed by a physician. If symptoms persist or worsen, promptly return for follow-up to ensure appropriate treatment. By implementing these measures, symptoms of cystitis can be effectively relieved and recurrence prevented.