Interstitial Cystitis Symptoms

Typical interstitial cystitis symptoms include pain in the bladder, painful sexual intercourse, and an urgent, frequent need to urinate. Symptoms can vary for each person, and other conditions can share similar symptoms. Therefore, anyone experiencing possible symptoms of interstitial cystitis is encouraged to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

Interstitial Cystitis Information

Common Symptoms of Interstitial Cystitis

Interstitial cystitis symptoms often vary from person to person. However, most people have one or more of the following symptoms:

Mild discomfort, pressure, tenderness, or intense pain in the bladder and surrounding pelvic area, which may increase as the bladder fills and decrease as it empties.
Urgent need to urinate (urgency).
Frequent need to urinate (frequency) -- both day and night.
Reduced bladder capacity. People with severe interstitial cystitis symptoms may urinate as many as 60 times during a 24-hour period.
Painful sexual intercourse.
In men, discomfort or pain in the prostatic area.

Women may find that their symptoms get worse during their menstrual periods.

Final Thoughts on Interstitial Cystitis Symptoms

These symptoms are not sure signs of the condition. Other common health problems, such as a urinary tract infection (UTI), can also cause these symptoms. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should see a doctor so that the problem can be properly diagnosed and treated.