Interstitial Cystitis & Zinc

Interstitial cystitis is a painful condition that occurs when the bladder and surrounding organs become inflamed. According to the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse, this condition is not caused by an infection, although many of the symptoms are similar to that of infection. This is why the initial approach to treatment typically involves a urinalysis to determine if there is, in fact, an infection. Conventional medical treatment for interstitial cystitis usually emphasizes symptom reduction. Certain supplemental vitamins or minerals like zinc may also help decrease the symptoms of this condition. Check with your doctor before using any dietary supplement.

Interstitial Cystitis

The symptoms of interstitial cystitis vary with the individual. Typically, pain and pressure in the region around your bladder are experienced. These may vary in severity, particularly in response to a woman's menstrual cycle. Interstitial cystitis occurs more frequently in women but has not been found to be related to heredity. Treatment for this condition includes anti-inflammatory medication, electrical nerve stimulation and exercises to strengthen your bladder. If your condition is causing debilitating pain, surgery to remove ulcerated tissue, enlarging the bladder or removing it completely may be necessary, but these measures are only performed for the most severe cases.

Zinc

Zinc is an essential mineral that plays an important role in facilitating enzyme reactions, maintaining immunity and stability of the structure of cells. Zinc is found in foods like shellfish, red meat, nuts and legumes. Zinc may help decrease the length of a cold however research to support this effect is mixed. Zinc supplements are also purported as treatment for conditions such as macular degeneration and diabetes however evidence for these actions are also mixed.

Zinc and Interstitial Cystitis

Because zinc has properties that facilitate the efficacy of the immune system, it may also help people living with interstitial cystitis. Zinc also acts as an antioxidant that can remove cell-damaging byproducts of metabolism known as free radicals. Zinc's immune-boosting effects, they explain, may help decrease the inflammation and related symptoms of interstitial cystitis. This mineral however, has not been directly implicated for the treatment of interstitial cystitis and it can be toxic at high levels. Due to this potential toxicity, check with your physician before you use a zinc supplement.

Considerations

A deficiency of zinc is considered rare in the United States. However, individuals who have had surgery on their gastrointestinal system, vegetarians and infants who are not breastfed are at risk for a zinc deficiency. Symptoms of a zinc deficiency include hair loss, sores on the skin and diarrhea, but these symptoms can also indicate other disorders and should be determined by your physician. Taking too much zinc for long periods of time can lead to symptoms of zinc toxicity, which is characterized by impaired immunity, and a copper deficiency.

Interstitial Cystitis & Zinc