Interstitial cystitis is a chronic condition that affects the bladder and the urinary tract. Also known as painful bladder syndrome, interstitial cystitis affects an estimated one million Americans. Women are more prone to the disorder than men. According to 2007 information from Merck.com, 90 percent of cases are found in women. Interstitial cystitis is characterized by pain in the bladder and pelvic area, pressure, and painful urination. Urinating frequently or feeling the need to urinate frequently are also symptoms.
Oral medications
Elmiron is the only FDA-approved oral medication for the treatment of interstitial cystitis. It is thought to assist in rebuilding the surface of the bladder to prevent irritation stemming from the acids in the urine. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and ibuprofen are used to prevent inflammation and relieve pain.
Diphenhydramine and loratadine are antihistamines that are used to reduce symptoms such as the frequency and urgent need to urinate. Tricyclic antidepressants are used to relax the bladder. They also can eliminate pain and pressure.
TENS Nerve Stimulation
TENS, or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, units are used to stimulate the nerves through the skin. TENS units are used to increase muscle strength and improve blood flow to the affected areas. Pads containing electric wires are placed over the pubic area or on the lower back. Sacral nerve stimulation is also performed using the same process. The sacral nerves are an important link from the spinal cord to the nerves of the bladder. Sacral nerve stimulation is used to reduce pain and the urgency to urinate. If sacral nerve stimulation is effective, a device similar to that of a pacemaker may be surgically implanted to provide constant relief of symptoms.
Bladder Distention and Medications
Bladder distention is used to stretch the bladder by filling it with water or air. After several minutes, the water or air is released.This treatment may provide temporary relief from symptoms associated with interstitial cystitis and other disorders involving the bladder. In some cases, mixtures of certain medications may be inserted into the bladder through a catheter. These compounds may contain DMSO and local anesthetics to reduce irritation of the lining of the bladder. After a few minutes, the mixtures are expelled through urination.
Surgery
In severe cases of interstitial cystitis, surgical augmentation or re-sectioning may need to be performed. These procedures involve removing badly damaged parts or sections of the bladder with surgery. These operations may cause other complications and are usually only considered after all other treatment options fail.
Diet
Changes in diet may also reduce the occurrence of painful symptoms that accompany interstitial cystitis. The amount of water consumed should be increased to make sure the urinary tract is flushed thoroughly on a regular basis.
Foods like tomatoes, coffee, citrus fruits and red meat should be avoided. These foods contain high levels of acids. Acids can irritate the bladder and cause lesions.
