Interstitial cystitis, or IC, is a painful condition caused by inflammation of the tissues of your bladder walls. IC is commonly mistaken for urinary tract infections and can take an average of four years to diagnose, notes MedlinePlus. Women are 10 times more likely than men to develop this condition. Diet modification and avoiding certain foods can help control symptoms and flare-ups of IC.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
IC has a number of symptoms that are often confused for the symptoms of a urinary tract infection. Symptoms may include frequent urination, the constant urge to urinate, pain during urination, pelvic pain and pain that occurs during sexual intercourse. If you have these symptoms, you should visit your doctor for a diagnosis. A diagnosis of IC is made by ruling out other conditions -- including urinary tract infections. You doctor my order a bladder biopsy, urine culture, urine analysis, endoscopy of the bladder or a video urodynamics -- a test that shoes how much urine fills your bladder before you feel the need to urinate.
Causes
IC has a number of different causes. The Interstitial Cystitis Foundation indicates the exact cause of IC is unknown, but researchers believe the trigger of IC is related to trauma to the bladder or the lining of your bladder. Triggers may include bacterial infections such as urinary tract infections, autoimmune disorders, spinal cord trauma, neurogenic inflammation, pelvic floor muscle dysfunction, using the bathroom infrequently and trauma to the bladder -- including surgery.
Treatment
There is no known cure for IC. Treatment for IC is largely based on trial and error and finding methods of relief for each individual person. An oral medication known as Elmiron is the only medication approved for the treatment of IC. Elmiron coats the lining of the bladder to help prevent irritation. Your doctor may also prescribe pain medications and medication to reduce the frequent urge to urinate. Treatment can also include physical therapy and surgery.
Diet
Diet modification can help in the treatment of IC. Many patients find they are able to control their symptoms by modifying their diet. There are a number of foods and beverages that act as stimulants. Stimulants can further irritate the lining of your bladder and intensify your symptoms. It is especially important to avoid caffeine, which can increase your urge to urinate, causing more pain. Stimulants can also cause bacteria to stick to the walls of your bladder. Acidic foods can also irritate the lining of your bladder.
Foods and Drinks to Avoid
The Interstitial Cystitis Association has comprised a list of foods you should avoid with IC. These include alcohol, chocolate, coffee, aged cheeses, cranberry juice, beans, processed meats, citrus fruits, fruits -- except blueberries and pears -- tea, sour cream, soy, tofu, tomatoes, onions, nuts, smoked meat, canned meat, tomatoes and yogurt, which can all irritate your bladder. You do not have to avoid these foods completely. Trial and error is the best means of finding a diet that works for you.
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