Women's Health

• It's possible that IC is caused by tiny leaks in the protective lining of the bladder, allowing chemicals in the urine to irritate the bladder wall.
• Some people may be having an allergic response to certain types of food or to their own body chemicals.
• It may also be caused by an autoimmune disorder.

Symptoms

• The number and severity of symptoms can vary from person to person, ranging from mild urinary urgency and bladder pain to severe and prolonged pain that disrupts everyday living. Symptoms can also flare up and then subside.
• Urgent and frequent trips to the bathroom to urinate both day and night–you suddenly need to go "right now".
• Feelings of pressure and pain in the bladder and/or the pelvis.
• Pain during sexual intercourse.
• Symptoms can feel like a urinary tract infection–but with Interstitial Cystitis, urine cultures are typically negative for bacteria.
• In men, discomfort or pain that can mimic prostate disorders.

Relief

• Oral medication may help relieve bladder pain and other discomfort caused by IC.
• Watch your diet for foods and drinks that may cause flare-ups, such as caffeine, cheese, alcohol, spicy foods, acidic items such as oranges, tomatoes, cranberry juice and artificial sweeteners. (Your food sensitivities, if any, may be specific to you; keeping a food log can help you identify problem foods and drinks.)
• Apply a warm compress or heating pad on your lower abdomen. (Some people prefer cold packs or alternating hot and cold compresses.)
• Warm baths may help relieve pain in the external genitalia.
• Stress can cause an IC flare-up. Learn relaxation and breathing techniques.
• Try bladder exercises