Information About Interstitial Cystitis

• IC (Bladder)

IC (a bladder condition) is characterized by pain and discomfort in the bladder and surrounding pelvic area. This eMedTV resource lists other symptoms, explains the possible causes, and discusses the various treatment options available.

• Is Interstitial Cystitis Transmitted?

Is interstitial cystitis transmitted? As this eMedTV resource explains, the bladder condition is not transmitted, but may be caused by an autoimmune disease, genetics, or irritating substances in the urine.

• Symptoms of Interstitial Cystitis

Common symptoms of interstitial cystitis include bladder pain and an urgent, frequent need to urinate. This eMedTV article lists other common symptoms and explains how other conditions can share these symptoms, making proper diagnosis vital.

• Diagnosing Interstitial Cystitis

A cystoscopy done under anesthesia is the primary test used when diagnosing interstitial cystitis. This eMedTV page describes how doctors go about diagnosing the condition and lists disorders that share similar symptoms, which doctors must rule out.

• Treatment for Interstitial Cystitis

Treatment for interstitial cystitis often includes medications, bladder distention, or bladder instillation. This eMedTV segment also lists self-help strategies, such as bladder training and diet, that can help minimize symptoms of the condition.

• Interstitial Cystitis Surgery

This eMedTV article describes various surgical techniques used for treating interstitial cystitis. Surgery outcomes are unpredictable; therefore, this should be considered only if pain is disabling and all other treatment options have failed.

• Living With Interstitial Cystitis

As this eMedTV article explains, people living with interstitial cystitis are often encouraged to seek therapy for help in coping with the condition. Other coping tools include instruction in relaxation techniques and support groups