Overview Of Interstitial Cystitis

There are approximately 750,000 Americans that have a bladder condition know as Interstitial Cystitis. Many of those with this condition are women. Interstitial cystitis is a chronic bladder condition which causes the bladder wall to become irritated, swollen and sore. As a result of this inflammation and swelling, a bladder may become stiff and cannot expand when urine starts to fill the bladder. This can case the bladder to bleed a bit, which can cause tiny sores to form inside the bladder. Below is an overview of Interstitial Cystitis to help you decide if you should seek the advice of a physician.

Symptoms that may be associated with Interstitial Cystitis:
Men may experience pain and or discomfort in the testicles or penis.

A weak bladder that cannot hold much urine.

Pain during sexual intercourse for either the man or the woman

A constant feeling and need to urinate both during the daytime hours and night time hours.

One may experience heaviness, soreness and tenderness around the pelvis, bladder, and perineum (the area which is between the anus and vagina for woman or the anus and testicles in men.) This pain can increase as the bladder fills with urine then will lessen as the bladder empties.

For many women, their symptoms can get worse when it is time for the menstrual cycle.

Stress can make many symptoms worse but stress does not cause the symptoms.

As of today, there are no known causes for interstitial cystitis. Studies have shown that it is not caused due to viruses or infections with bacteria. Some believe that it may be caused by a defect in the lining of the bladder. In normal circumstances, the bladder lining helps to protect the bladder wall from the toxic effects of urine.

While there is no cure for Interstitial Cystitis, there are treatments that can help to lessen the symptoms. Most people feel better just from trying just one of the treatments. Treatments may include: Changing your diet to lesson the amount of acid produced in your urine, bladder distention (overfilling the bladder with fluid under local anesthesia.), antihistamines or bladder instillation (filling the bladder with a liquid medication). If you feel that you suffer from Interstitial Cystitis, you should seek the advice of a trusted physician. Your doctor will help you find the best treatment to help you with your condition and get you back on your way to feeling better.

By: Kristi Patrice Carter

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If you’re currently experiencing Interstitital Cystitis or painful bladder syndrome then you are not alone. Many people, just like you, have found relief from painful interstitital cystitis symptoms and are currently living a healthier and happier lifestyle. If you want to join the revolution for better bladder health, please visit www.interstitial-cystitis.net