Definition
Interstitial cystitis is a long-term (chronic) inflammation of the bladder wall.
Alternative Names
Cystitis - interstitial; IC
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a painful condition due to inflammation of the tissues of the bladder wall. The cause is unknown. The condition is usually diagnosed by ruling out other conditions (such as sexually transmitted disease, bladder cancer, and bladder infections).
IC is frequently misdiagnosed as a urinary tract infection. Patients often go years without a correct diagnosis. On average, there is about a 4-year delay between the time the first symptoms occur and the diagnosis is made.
The condition generally occurs around age 30 to 40, although it has been reported in younger people. Women are 10 times more likely to have IC than men.
Symptoms
- Pain during intercourse
- Pelvic pain
- Urinary discomfort
- Urinary frequency (up to 60 times a day in severe cases)
- Urinary urgency
Signs and tests
Diagnosis is made by ruling out other causes. Tests include:
Treatment
There is no cure for IC, and there are no standard or consistently effective treatments. Results vary from person to person. As long as the cause is unknown, treatment is based on trial and error until you find relief.
Elmiron is the only medication taken by mouth that is specifically approved for treating IC. This medicine coats the bladder like Pepto-Bismol coats the stomach.
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