Interstitial Cystitis Information

• Interstitial Cystitis

Interstitial cystitis is a bladder condition that can cause pain, as well as a frequent need to urinate. This eMedTV article provides detailed information on the condition, including common symptoms, possible causes, treatment options, and more.

• Causes of Interstitial Cystitis

While the causes of interstitial cystitis are still being studied, possibilities discussed in this eMedTV article include a substance in urine that irritates the bladder, genetics, and the role of an autoimmune response following infection.

• Interstitial Cystitis Symptoms

Bladder pain and an urgent, frequent need to urinate are some of the symptoms of interstitial cystitis. This eMedTV Web page lists several possible interstitial cystitis symptoms and stresses the importance of seeing a doctor if they occur.

• 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.

• Interstitial Cystitis Treatment

Interstitial cystitis treatment options discussed in this eMedTV article include bladder distention and instillation and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. Self-help strategies and the use of medications are also discussed.

• 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