Interstitial Cystitis

Overview

Interstitial cystitis is a condition which affects the bladder primarily. It can cause bladder or pelvic pain and urinary frequency.The actual cause for this condition remains unknown however many factors have been linked to this condition.

Signs and Symptoms

Pain in your pelvis or between the vagina and anus in women, Pain between the scrotum and anus in men (perineum), Chronic pelvic pain, Persistent, Urgency, Frequent urination, Often of small amounts throughout the day and night (up to 60 times a day), Pain or discomfort while the bladder fills and relief after urinating., Pain during sexual intercourse.

Common Causes

People with interstitial cystitis may also have a defect in the protective lining (epithelium) of the bladder

Risk Factors

Women, Old age, Chronic pain disorder such as irritable bowel syndrome or fibromyalgia.

Investigation Techniques

Urinalysis, Postvoid residual urine volume, Cystoscopy, Bladder and urethra biopsy, Prostate fluid culture (in men)

Treatment and Prevention

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, Tricyclic antidepressants, Antihistamines, Pentosan polysulfate sodium (Elmiron), Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), Sacral nerve stimulation, Fulguration, Resection, Bladder augmentation

Psychological Issues

Stress, Anxiety