Cystitis is bladder inflammation, most commonly caused by bacterial infection (especially E. coli) but also triggered by irritants, interstitial cystitis (chronic bladder inflammation), or chemical sensitivity. Your urinary system team includes kidneys filtering blood, ureters transporting urine, bladder storage with muscular walls, and urethra with protective mucous lining and immune defenses. The "organism as team" framework helps: bacterial cystitis occurs when your immune defense team in the urinary tract becomes overwhelmed by invading bacteria, often when natural defenses are compromised (dehydration reduces flushing, hormonal changes thin protective mucosa, sexual activity introduces bacteria). Your bladder lining team becomes inflamed, triggering pain sensors and urgency signals. Your immune team rushes white blood cells to the area, creating the burning sensation. This coordinated defense response, while uncomfortable, shows your organism fighting the infection. Supporting your teams involves hydration (helping your flushing mechanisms), urination after intercourse (clearing bacteria), possibly D-mannose or cranberry (preventing bacterial adhesion), and appropriate antibiotics when needed to reinforce your immune team. For chronic cases, identifying irritants and supporting bladder lining repair becomes crucial. ⚕️ This protocol does not replace professional consultation.