Interstitial cystitis, or IC, can be ulcerative or non-ulcerative. The non-ulcerative form involves hemorrhages along the bladder wall with general signs of inflammation. The ulcerative form involves actual sores or ulcers along the bladder wall, and occurs when the walls of the bladder are weak, which allows particles that are normally in the urine to leak into the bladder's lining. While it may mimic an infection, IC itself is not an infection. The exact cause of IC is still unknown, but there are treatment options. If you think you might have IC, be on the lookout for certain symptoms that can be either mild or severe.
Frequent Urination
A common symptom of interstitial cystitis is the need to urinate frequently. According to the Interstitial Cystitis Association, you may feel the need to go up to 60 times per day. A normal amount is four to seven times a day. The need to urinate occurs both during the day and at night. In mild cases it may be your only sign that you have this condition.
Urgent Need to Urinate
Along with going frequently, you may also feel an urgent need to urinate. This may or may not be accompanied by pain or pressure in your pelvic area, and muscle spasms. This sensation may come on quickly, without warning, and you may not be able to make it to the bathroom in time.
Pain
IC can lead to pain and pressure as your bladder beings to fill. For both men and women, sexual intercourse may also be painful. According to the American Urological Association, you may also experience pain in the pelvic area, lower abdominal area or low back. In some cases, the pain comes and goes, while in others it is constant.
