General Information

What is Interstitial Cystitis?

IC is a chronic condition characterized by bladder pain and discomfort. Unlike a urinary tract infection, IC is not caused by bacteria and cannot be treated with antibiotics. It’s essential to consult a urologist to explore available treatment options and manage the symptoms effectively.

Symptoms of Interstitial Cystitis:

• Chronic pain or pressure in the bladder or pelvic area
• Temporary relief from pain after urinating
• Fluctuations in pain intensity

Causes of IC:

The exact cause of IC is unknown, but it may be related to a combination of factors such as bladder inflammation, autoimmune responses, or nerve abnormalities.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing interstitial cystitis can be challenging.

Your urologist may perform a variety of tests to rule out other conditions and infections, including:

• Urinalysis: To check for signs of infection.
• Cystoscopy: To examine the bladder.
• Bladder Biopsy: To check for inflammation or other abnormalities.

Treatment

Treatment for IC focuses on relieving symptoms and may include:

Lifestyle Changes:

• Dietary modifications to avoid bladder irritants (e.g., caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods).
• Regular exercise to reduce stress and improve overall health.

Medications:

• Oral medications to reduce pain and inflammation.

Physical Therapy:

• Techniques to relieve pelvic floor muscle spasms.

Bladder Training:

• Techniques to increase the intervals between urinating.

Nerve Stimulation:

• Procedures to reduce pain by stimulating the nerves controlling the bladder.

Your urologist will develop a personalized treatment plan based on your symptoms and overall health.