Interstitial cystitis is a chronic condition that can cause discomfort or pain in the bladder and the surrounding pelvic region. People with the condition have an inflamed or irritated bladder wall. This can lead to scarring and stiffening of the bladder, less bladder capacity, and pinpoint bleeding in the bladder lining. Common symptoms of interstitial cystitis include discomfort, pressure, tenderness, or intense pain in the bladder and surrounding pelvic area; an urgent and frequent need to urinate -- both day and night; and reduced bladder capacity.