What is Interstitial Cystitis?

Interstitial Cystitis, or IC, is a chronic condition that affects the bladder. It is characterized by urinary frequency, urgency, and pain. IC can be frustrating and debilitating, but there are treatments available that can help lessen the symptoms. Here's what you need to know about IC.

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The exact cause of IC is unknown, but it is thought to be due to an abnormal reaction in the urinary tract to an infection or injury. This reaction triggers inflammation and leads to the development of scar tissue. The scar tissue can distort the shape of the bladder and cause it to not fill correctly. This can lead to urinary frequency and urgency as well as pelvic pain. In some cases, the scarring can also block the urethra, making urination difficult or even impossible

The most common symptom of IC is pelvic pain. This pain can range from mild discomfort to severe pain. Other symptoms include urinary frequency (needing to urinate more than 8 times a day), urgency (a strong need to urinate), nocturia (waking up at night to urinate), and dysuria (painful urination). Some people with IC also experience sexual dysfunction due to the pelvic pain

IC should be diagnosed by a healthcare professional. They will take a medical history and perform a physical exam. They may also order urine tests and imaging tests such as ultrasounds or cystoscopies. These tests are important in ruling out other conditions with similar symptoms such as UTIs or bladder cancer.

There is no cure for IC, but there are treatments that can help lessen the symptoms. Medications such as analgesics, antihistamines, tricyclic antidepressants, and pentosan polysulfate sodium (Elmiron) can help relieve pelvic pain. Anticholinergics can help reduce urinary frequency and urgency. Bladder instillations (injections of medication into the bladder) may also be used in some cases. Physical therapy, acupuncture, and electrical stimulation are other treatment options that may provide relief from symptoms. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove scar tissue or blockages in the urinary tract

Interstitial Cystitis is a chronic condition that affects the bladder and causes urinary frequency, urgency, and pain. The exact cause is unknown but it is thought to be due to an abnormal reaction in the urinary tract to an infection or injury. There is no cure for IC, but there are treatments available that can help lessen the symptoms such as medications, physical therapy, and acupuncture. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove scar tissue or blockages in the urinary tract. If you think you may have IC, please see your healthcare professional for a diagnosis.