Interstitial cystitis
Interstitial cystitis Causes
The cause of interstitial cystitis is not known, though several theories have been put forward (these include autoimmune, allergic, neurologic, and genetic). Regardless of the origin, it is obvious that the majority of IC patients struggle with a damaged urothelium, or bladder lining.
Interstitial cystitis Definition
Interstitial cystitis (IC) is the term used to describe a clinical syndrome characterized by chronic urinary urgency (feeling the need to urinate immediately) and frequency (frequent urination) with or without pelvic pain.
Interstitial cystitis Diagnosis
To diagnose interstitial cystitis, the doctor will take the patient's medical history and ask him to describe his symptoms. The doctor may also request that the patient keep a bladder diary, recording the volume he drinks and the volume of urine he passes. This information can be crucial for diagnosing interstitial cystitis. Tests used to diagnose IC includes urine tests, potassium sensitivity test, and cystoscopy.
Interstitial cystitis Symptoms and Signs
The symptoms of interstitial cystitis differ greatly from one person to another but have some similarities to those of a urinary tract infection. They include: decreased bladder capacity; an urgent need to urinate frequently day and night; feelings of pressure, pain, and tenderness around the bladder, pelvis, and perineum (the area between the anus and vagina or anus and scrotum) which may increase as the bladder fills and decrease as it empties; painful sexual intercourse (dyspareunia); and discomfort or pain in the penis and scrotum.
Interstitial cystitis Treatment
Diet, medication, pelvic floor treatements, pain control, and bladder distensions are some of the treatments for IC.