Interstitial cystitis or IC, also known as Painful Bladder Syndrome, is a condition characterized by pain in the bladder, pelvic region and abdomen. The condition is more common in women than men. Pain may change in intensity when the bladder fills with urine or as it empties. Women may experience more pain during menstruation or vaginal intercourse.
Symptoms
Interstitial cystitis varies so much in symptoms and severity that it's believed to be caused by several diseases. Common symptoms include painful urination, with some patients also reporting a burning sensation in the urethra, and frequent urination, says MedlinePlus. Some patients may need to urinate as frequently as 60 times a day, including frequent nighttime urination.
Diagnosis
Because the symptoms of interstitial cystitis are shared with many others disorders, doctors need to eliminate other treatable conditions before correctly diagnosing IC. These conditions include bladder and urinary tract infections, as well as bladder cancer. Tests used to eliminate these other diseases include urinalysis, urine culture, cystoscopy, biopsy of the bladder wall and urethra, and distention of the bladder under anesthesia.
Diet and Interstitial Cystitis
According to the National Institutes of Health, there is no evidence linking diet to interstitial cystitis. However, some patients suffering from the condition report that certain foods may worsen their symptoms. These include alcohol, tomatoes, spices, chocolate, caffeinated and citrus beverages, high-acid foods, and foods and beverages containing artificial sweeteners. Patients may want to eliminate various items from their diet in order to improve their condition, but maintaining a well-balanced diet should be encouraged.
Treatment
There is no cure for IC, so clinicians aim treatments toward relieving symptoms. Bladder distension is used as an initial therapy, and for diagnosis. Bladder instillation -- when the bladder is filled with a solution for varying periods before being emptied -- is also used as a treatment. Bladder instillation is usually performed every week or two for six to eight weeks. Other treatments include electrical nerve stimulation and bladder training. Elmiron is the only drug specifically aimed at alleviating symptoms of IC.
