OVERVIEW OF CYSTITIS

I. Physiological Considerations

    Cystitis, or inflammation of the bladder, is brought about by a number of conditions which act in such a way as to disturb the circulation through the kidney and bladder area, resulting in congestion, stasis, and at times outright infection of the tissues.  Cystitis is more often a reaction of the bladder to a diseased state occurring elsewhere in the body than a distinct disease in itself.  A single cause or a number of factors acting together may bring about one or more of the symptoms of burning and frequency of urination, spasm of the bladder and bladder neck, a sensation of heaviness in the bladder area, difficulty in emptying the bladder and in retention of urine.  Pus, blood, or protein may or may not be present in the urine.

    The bladder, an organ assisting the kidneys in the elimination of waste products, is sensitive to the many imbalances that may occur in the eliminative systems of the body.  It may react to burdens placed upon the liver in its efforts to rid the body of toxic products through the kidneys; or it, as well as the urethra, may become irritated in a more direct manner from the passage of certain poisons and waste products being eliminated from the hepatic circulation by the kidneys.  Too high a concentration of either acid or alkaline substances passing through the bladder and urethra are frequently mentioned as causes of irritation.

    A survey of the readings reveals that most cases of cystitis are associated with disease states in other parts of the body which act in such a way as to disturb the hepatic circulation.  In very few cases was cystitis the only, or even the major, condition for which a reading was given.

    The hepatic or portal circulation is that part of the venous circulation that flows from the organs of digestion through the liver before returning to the heart via the inferior vena cava.  The kidneys also comprise a part of the hepatic circulation.

    As an organ (for the more perfect understanding of the body, for this may be disputed by some), the liver and kidneys form the hepatic circulation.  The blood supply of the whole body goes through the liver twice, even to once through the heart.   (1140-2)

    Disturbances in the hepatic circulation may be brought about by a rather wide variety of causes, due not only to the many and varied functions of the liver but also to the rather close coordination between the liver and kidneys.

    Then there is that circulation called the hepatic, as indicated, wherein there is the coordinant reaction between the liver and the kidneys.  The liver is an excretory as well as a secretive organ.  The kidneys are secretive and take from the system, also from the liver and from the general circulation of the whole abdominal area, poisons that are not eliminated through other ways and manners.
    When toxic forces arise in the body from the inflammation through the abdominal area, or through the uterus itself, combined with the disturbances through lack of proper eliminations in the alimentary canal, then we have a sparse activity of the bladder or of the kidneys through the bladder.  Then this produces in the body an irritation, owing to the great excess of acidity, that produces a burning even through the clitoris and the mouth of the uterus and in the portions of the body.
    This is not an indication that the kidneys are involved but that the activity of the whole hepatic circulation and the organs or eliminations through these portions of the system become involved in same.   (1140-2)

    The causes of disturbances to the hepatic circulation as given in the readings are too numerous and too diverse in nature to be included as a comprehensive part of this discussion.  They include such imbalances to the system as infection and congestion in the liver and gall duct areas (815-1, 882-2 and 1446-1), a torpid liver (19-1 and 3050-1), cirrhosis (2729-2), prolapsed descending colon (69-3), improper colon eliminations combined with uterine inflammation (1140-2), disturbances in the red cell element of the blood (2729-2, 3050-1 and 3822-1), cerebrospinal lesions (2462-1 and 3822-1), adhesions causing a thinning in the lacteal duct areas of the jejunum (2050-1), and emotional disturbances (2402-1).

    We have at times the condition with the lower portion of the hepatic circulation; when the kidneys are affected, not other than sympathetically, in their attempt to aid in the elimination of these toxic forces that are created in the body.  A burning through the urethra, with the evacuation of the bladder, occurs at times.
    These are from a form of acidity...    (2462-1)

    The liver torpid in its activity, as is the stress at times and overactivity of the kidneys and the hepatic circulation - pressure on bladder at times painful when passing of urine at times, or burning.  This an overacid reaction, and the effects of the disturbance as is seen in that portion of system as given.   (19-1)

    In the following case, overalkalinity is found to be the cause:

    There has been a gradual increasing in the lack of activity of the liver and gall duct area, with the accumulation not of stones but of gravel in the gall duct itself.  This tends to produce activities that prevent a normal elimination and the normal flow of the gastric juices that keep certain elements out of the system by the poor assimilation; making then rather a complex reaction.  For there have been those quantities of foods and of medicinal properties that have caused an excess alkalinity.  Thus the reaction existing between the circulation in liver and kidneys is gradually, through this alkalinity, causing irritation to the bladder and the tubes through which the urine passes.   (5009-1)

    In general the bladder, when it becomes inflamed, may be regarded more often as the victim of disease rather than the source.  

II.  Rationale of Therapy

    Since most cases of cystitis in the readings result from some disturbance to the hepatic circulation, the rationale of therapy will center mostly around efforts to improve the hepatic circulation and coordinate the function of the organ systems, and the specific relief of bladder inflammation and discomfort.

    Whenever a diseased condition occurring elsewhere in the body is found to be disturbing the hepatic circulation or otherwise contributing to bladder inflammation, treatment is directed toward relieving the cause.  This would indicate that a thorough physical examination at the beginning of the undertaking is usually essential to the overall treatment and ultimate cure.

    Efforts are made to eliminate any irritating or toxic elements present in the system.  Good bowel habits should be established and maintained in all cases.  Adequate removal of the accumulated toxic refuse from the lower bowel makes a thorough cleansing by enemas or colonics necessary in many instances.  Ample fluid intake is essential in aiding the kidneys in their elimination of toxic waste products.

    The diet should be kept on the alkaline side to correct the acid tendencies which more often accompany disturbances in hepatic circulation.  At least six to eight glasses of water are prescribed in the daily diet as well as a plentiful supply of fresh fruits and vegetables.  Caution is given against the use of white bread, starchy foods, and too much fried foods and sweets, all of which contribute toward an overacidity in the system.  Carbonated beverages should not be taken in any quantity except as prescribed.

    Osteopathic adjustments help to stimulate the blood and lymph circulation in the disturbed areas to assist in the more efficient removal of accumulated waste products.  This is one of the first steps necessary in assisting the body in its repair of the damaged tissues and restoration of balance to the system.  Various physical therapies and local applications of counterirritants are used in some instances to aid in stimulating circulation.  Hydrotherapy and cabinet baths are, when indicated, usually prescribed in close conjunction with thorough cleansing of the colon so as to coordinate the elimination of wastes from the system more completely.

    Watermelon seed tea, which contains a preferred form of nitre, is often used to help purify and clear the activity of the kidneys.

Q-1.  What is the condition of the kidneys?
A-1.  As just indicated, this is an incoordination between the eliminating systems.  Thus the necessity of that character or quality of nitre as may be obtained from watermelon seed tea.   (2434-2)

    In general throughout the readings it is advised that very little carbonated beverages be taken; however, a little Coca Cola syrup is advised in those instances where there tends to be an acidity in the urine.  This acts in much the same way as watermelon seed tea.

    Afterward - that is, for that day, or for that evening use a little of the watermelon seed tea; this will help to purify.  Or if desirable drink Coca Cola - a little Coca Cola; this will act almost in the same way and manner in purifying or clearing the ducts through the kidneys, and thus reduce the general forces and influence there.  (540-11)

    Local therapy consists of using an antiseptic solution such as Glyco-Thymoline for feminine douching and for general application over the pubic area in the form of hot packs.  Atomidine when prescribed as a douche solution (1140-2), included in the Circulating File on cystitis, is stated to act in such a manner as to work directly upon the hepatic circulation, acting not only as a cleansing solution for inflammatory conditions but aiding in the functioning of all the reproductive glands that become irritated or inflamed.

    A combination of laudanum and aconite can be applied to the skin locally for relief of pain.  Laudanum is a tincture of opium.  Aconite is described in Dorland's Medical Dictionary as a poisonous drug whose systemic use has been largely abandoned.  It is a cardiac and respiratory sedative, analgesic, diaphoretic, and diuretic.  Its active principle is aconitine.

III.  Suggested Therapeutic Regimen

    Since the underlying causes of cystitis are often complex and involve imbalances in other parts of the body, no system of treatment should be undertaken in those cases of chronic or recurrent cystitis until there has first been a complete physical examination.  Specific treatment of the underlying disease will of course depend on the diagnosis made.

    More general therapy consists of improving the eliminations and balancing the diet, using nitre in the form of watermelon seed tea, stimulating the circulation, and further coordinating the activities of the various organs through osteopathic adjustments and physical therapy, and using medicinal douches and/or local applications for the relief of pain and irritation. (These will be taken up and elaborated on separately.)

    Good bowel eliminations are essential to successful therapy.  One of the milder laxatives such as senna is often prescribed.  Senna acts with the digestive forces to produce the proper condition within the blood that is to be carried through the hepatic circulation. (3972- 1) Certain foods such as figs, dates, raisins, prunes, pieplant [rhubarb], and stewed fruits are also advised for their laxative qualities.  A particular combination is prescribed in reading 2050-1.

    Then follow the regular diets that aid in eliminations.  Use such as figs; or a combination of figs and dates would be an excellent diet to be taken often.  Prepare same in this manner:
        1 cup black or Assyrian figs, chopped, cut or ground very fine;
        1 cup dates chopped very fine,
        1/2 cup yellow corn meal (not too finely ground).
    Cook this combination in 2 or 3 cups of water until the consistency of mush.  Such a dish as part of the diet often will be as an aid to better eliminations, as well as carrying those properties that will aid in building better conditions throughout the alimentary canal.  (2050-1)

    Harsher laxative compounds are sometimes suggested.

    First we would begin with a series of cleansing properties, prepared in this manner.  Prepare at least six (6) capsules, with this amount in each capsule:
        Podophyllin, 1/4 grain
        Leptandrin, 1 grain
        Sanguinaria, 1 grain
    These would be taken one each evening, until all six are taken.
    During this period take little besides liquids or semi-liquids in the diet.  And do drink at least six to eight glasses of water each day.  (3050-1)

    Podophyllin, of course, is a contact irritant.  Leptandrin acts directly with the functioning of the lower intestinal tract. (3972-1)   In the same reading sanguinaria is stated to produce the condition necessary to cause the flow of blood through the lower portion of the body.

    If a more thorough cleansing of the lower bowel is indicated, then professionally administered enemas or colonics are used.

    Then we would use the enemas, rather the colon enemas; not too often, but so that the body may be cleansed from toxic forces that naturally arise from this inactivity through the system.  Do not use such large quantities of water, but use a saline solution that through these manners of application will add an element that will form with the natural secretions of the body, as well as the oils.  Not those that would make for a collecting of influences through the alimentary canal (as those that carry the paraffin in same), but rather small quantities of olive oil; that would be not only a food for the intestinal system but would - in such minute quantities - be assimilated without causing disturbing factors.
    In using the colonics, combine the solutions in this manner: To each quart of tepid water that would be used, use a level tablespoonful of salt and half a tablespoonful of baking soda; this well dissolved before it is used.   (1140-2)

    At times an antiseptic solution such as Lavoris or Glyco-Thymoline is used in the enema or colonic solution with a tablespoonful to a gallon or gallon and a half of water.

    The matter of diet relates primarily to the acid-alkaline balance of the system.  In most cases of cystitis - and especially where there is a disturbance of the hepatic circulation - the system has a tendency to be overly acidic.  Hence, the diet is generally alkaline in nature.

    As to the diets - these are very well if kept in a balance of at least eighty percent alkaline-producing to twenty percent of the acid-producing.  This would then indicate not great quantities of sugars or of sweets, though honey may be taken.  But beware of cakes or icing or great quantities of sugar or candy.  Honey, especially with the honeycomb, may be taken as the sweets.  Not a great quantity ever, of course, of fried foods.  Not great quantities ever, of course, of fried foods.  Not great quantities ever of white bread, but rather use rye or whole wheat or the like - these are the more preferable.   (540-11)

    As to the diet - after the period of the cleansing of the alimentary canal, and making for the activity of the liver, the spleen, the kidneys, as to their general activity - there should not be a great deal of meat.  Never any hog meat, except occasionally a little crisp bacon may be taken.  Fish, fowl and lamb should be the meats, and these not every day and never fried.
    Leafy vegetables are preferable to the tuberous or bulbous nature.  A raw salad should be one meal each day, or at least part of same.  Include raw carrots, lettuce, celery, watercress, and especially beet tops.  These may all be taken raw, if properly prepared.  For this particular body, these would be better in bulk than just taking the juices of same; though for some bodies the juices would be better.
    As for breads - only cornbread, using the yellow meal, with egg, and whole wheat bread.  These are preferable.   (3050-1)

    A method for obtaining a rough idea of the acidity or alkalinity of the system is given in one of the readings.

    A general activity for a body in much of a normal condition is to keep the acidity and the alkalinity in a proper balance.  The best manner to indicate this is to test the alkalinity or acidity of the body through the salivary glands or through the salivary gland membranes, or by taking the litmus paper in the mouth.  This also may be indicated through the urine.
    Whenever there is disturbance with this, if it is in the glands themselves, then take citrocarbonate - that is, if it is indicated in the salivary glands that there is an acidity, then take a small quantity of citrocarbonate.  If the acidity is indicated through the kidneys, or from the urine itself, then drink a little of the carbonated waters, as would be indicated with Coca Cola - but that which is bottled is the better; or use a little of the watermelon seed tea.  Either of these would tend to make for a balance.   (540-11)

    Osteopathic adjustments, at the discretion of professional judgment, tend to be given in the areas of the ninth dorsal, which leads to the solar plexus, and to the lumbar and sacral segments of the spine which innervate the pelvic area.  Lesions of the spine most often affecting the hepatic circulation are found in the lower dorsal area.

    Stimulation of circulation to promote better coordination throughout the system is further aided by physical therapy.  This includes hydrotherapy treatments and peanut oil massage (see 2462-1). Where cystitis was in part due to improper oxidation of the blood as manifested by excessive tiredness and weakness, a program of physical therapy was advised.

    After these properties have reacted upon the system, begin with hydrotherapy treatments.  When giving the First two or three, watch the pulsations - or the heart's activity.  Each treatment should include a mild cabinet sweat, first beginning with dry heat.  Then add to this the fumes from witch hazel, by using a teaspoonful of witch hazel in the open boiler or croup cup of boiling water in the cabinet, inside the cabinet with the lights, you see, though the lights would be turned off after the water begins to boil and after the body has been slightly heated from sitting in the cabinet.  Use a teaspoonful of the witch hazel to four ounces of water.  These should be taken every week until ten or twelve are taken.
    Follow each fume bath with a hot and then cold shower.  Sitz baths would also be well for the body.  This will aid in alleviating the tendencies in the rectal area for those disturbances there, as well as through the lower lumbar area.
    These should be followed by a thorough rubdown with a combination of three parts olive oil and one part oil of pine needles, thoroughly mixed.  Massage this thoroughly into the spine, especially across the area of the diaphragm and the liver, close over the spleen and the abdominal area.   (3050-1)

    In reading 882-2 massage - using a compound of equal parts heated mutton suet, spirits of turpentine, spirits of camphor and compound tincture of benzoin as a counterirritant - is applied to the lower dorsal and lumbar spine and across the abdomen, followed by application of a heated salt pack to the area.  A hot salt pack is preferred to a heating pad as a source of local heat and is said to help carry those properties through the pores that would enable the body to overcome congestion in the area.  The same is indicated in the following reading:

Q-1.  What causes and what can be done for burning in the bladder?
A-1.  The improper circulation.  Apply Glyco-Thymoline packs over the pubic area...
Use three to four thicknesses of cotton cloth saturated with the Glyco-Thymoline for the packs.  Place salt heat over same; not an electric pad, but salt heated in a sack or bag and laid over the Glyco-Thymoline pack.  These will ease and relieve these tensions.   (3469-1)

    For relief of pain it was frequently advised that the area be painted with a combination of three parts laudanum to one part aconite, then followed with the application of a hot salt pack.

    When there are acute pains across the bladder, then we would apply hot packs of heavy salt.  First paint the area, though, with a combination of three parts laudanum to one part aconite, which as we find would give relief.  Then apply the heavy salt, heated and put in a sack or bag, of course.  These we find will relieve and bring the better conditions for this body.   (1446-1)

    Glyco-Thymoline douches, using a teaspoonful of Glyco-Thymoline to a quart of body temperature water, are recommended for occasional use as well as taking five drops of Glyco-Thymoline in a glass of water one to three times a week to help relieve the irritation of the bladder. (3469-1) In cases of vaginal or pelvic inflammation an Atomidine douch is indicated.

    Also we would find it well to use the Atomidine douches, for the irritation through the pelvic organs.  These should be body-temperature.  Do not have the water cooler than body-temperature, nor very much higher.  Test same, not by hand but by thermometer.  That means ninety-eight and a half to one hundred or a hundred and one, not above that.  The proportions would be a teaspoonful of the commercial strength Atomidine to half a gallon of water.  Give these at least every other day, but if there is acute disturbances they may be taken oftener.   (1446-1)

[Note: The preceding overview was written by Frederick D. Lansford, Jr., M.D. and is excerpted from the Physician's Reference Notebook, Copyright © 1968 by the Edgar Cayce Foundation, Virginia Beach, VA.]