1. Bladder Training
If your primary interstitial cystitis symptom seems to be urinary frequency rather than pain, you can cut down on the number of trips you take to the bathroom by training your bladder to void on a set schedule. Use a diary to record the specific times you urinate over a few days, and then evaluate the diary to determine how long the intervals tend to be. If you usually urinate every 20 minutes, try to extend this to half an hour, and distract yourself in any way you can to get through those extra 10 minutes--use work, conversation, video games or anything that does the trick for you. Once you are able to hold it for 30 minutes, try to extend the interval to 40 minutes and then to an hour.
2. Try Kegel Exercises
Interstitial cystitis pain can be relieved by learning how to do Kegel exercises and practicing them on a daily basis. These exercises, which involve tightening and then releasing your bladder muscles, can strengthen your pelvic floor. They can also help you learn to relax these muscles so you can prevent the painful pelvic muscle spasms experienced by some IC sufferers.
3. Explore Dietary Management Techniques
Switch to a diet low in acidic foods, as those can irritate the lining of your bladder and aggravate your IC symptoms. You should also avoid other potential irritants such as alcohol, caffeine, carbonated drinks, chocolate, sugar, fried foods and dairy products. Your best bet is to stick to fresh, unrefined and unprocessed foods such as fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts, whole grains, olive oil and fish such as tuna, salmon, tuna, halibut, mackerel and sardines. As with any drastic diet change, though, you should first consult with your doctor, especially if you suffer from any other medical conditions.
4. Learn About Herbal Remedies
Interstitial cystitis symptoms such as urinary pain can be treated with a variety of herbal remedies. One herb that is often recommended to treat IC is Gotu kola, as it can stimulate the production of the glycosaminoglycans found in your bladder's protective mucous layer. Other herbs used to promote bladder health include cornsilk and marshmallow root, both of which can be soothing to the bladder, and horsetail, which is a mild astringent that can heal bladder tissue.
5. Join a Support Group
Speak with your doctor or contact the Interstitial Cystitis Foundation in order to find a support group in your area for other IC sufferers. The more involved in your own treatment you become, the better your chances for success in overcoming the problems associated with your condition will be. Your best bet is to start with getting support from others who are experienced in managing their own IC. If you cannot find a local support group or you are reluctant to attend meetings, you can always explore groups, listservs and online forums designed to share advice and give encouragement to sufferers of interstitial cystitis.
