Interstitial Cystitis

Interstitial cystitis (IC), also known as bladder pain syndrome (BPS), is a chronic condition that can cause significant discomfort and disrupt your daily life. The persistent bladder pressure, pain, and frequent urination associated with IC can be frustrating and affect your quality of life. At Urology Specialists of Ohio, our compassionate urologists understand the challenges of IC and offer a comprehensive approach to manage your symptoms and help you regain control.

Understanding Interstitial Cystitis (IC)

The exact cause of IC remains unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of factors that irritate the bladder lining and cause pain. Our urologists will conduct a thorough evaluation to identify any underlying contributors and develop a personalized treatment plan to manage your IC.

Symptoms of Interstitial Cystitis (IC)

IC can manifest in various ways, with the most common symptoms including:

• Bladder pain and pressure: This can be a constant dull ache or a sharp, stabbing pain.
• Frequent urination (urinary urgency): You may feel the urge to urinate frequently, even if you haven't passed much urine.
• Pain during sexual intercourse (in some women): IC can cause pain in the pelvic region during sex.

Diagnosis of Interstitial Cystitis (IC)

There is no single test for IC. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of approaches at Urology Specialists of Ohio, including:

• Medical history and physical exam: Discussing your symptoms and medical history is crucial. A physical exam may be performed to rule out other conditions.
• Urinalysis and urine culture: These tests can help identify any underlying infection that might be mimicking IC symptoms.
• Cystoscopy: In some cases, a cystoscopy may be recommended. A thin scope is inserted through the urethra to examine the bladder lining for abnormalities.

Living with Interstitial Cystitis (IC)

While there is no cure for IC, there are effective treatment options available at Urology Specialists of Ohio to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. These may include:

• Lifestyle Modifications: Identifying and avoiding bladder irritants like caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods can be helpful. Stress management techniques and bladder training exercises can also improve symptoms.
• Medications: Oral medications like pain relievers, antidepressants for nerve pain, and medications to relax the bladder muscles may be prescribed to manage pain and urgency.
• Pelvic Floor Muscle Therapy: Strengthening and retraining the pelvic floor muscles can improve bladder control and reduce pain.
• Neuromodulation Techniques: Electrical stimulation techniques like Interstim can help regulate bladder nerves and reduce pain signals.
• Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be considered as a last resort to increase bladder capacity or manage pain.

Regaining Control of Your Life

IC doesn't have to control your life. With the expertise of our urologists at Urology Specialists of Ohio and a personalized treatment plan, you can experience significant symptom relief and regain control of your bladder function. We are dedicated to providing you with compassionate care, clear communication, and effective strategies to manage IC and improve your quality of life.