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What is Interstitial Cystitis?
An inflammation of the bladder is called cystitis. It is usually caused by a bacterial infection.
Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a chronic condition that causes pain and inflammation in the urinary bladder even without infection.
Most of the patients are women and the average age of onset is 40 years. -
Causes
Exact cause(s) is unknown. Some of the causes suggested include -Hereditary factors
Autoimmune disease
Defect in the bladder epithelium
Neurogenic factors
Unidentified infectious agents
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Symptoms
Symptoms of IC are characterized by periods of remission and relapse.
Frequency in urination and urgency to urinate are common symptoms.
Other symptoms include -
Pain in the bladder, lower back, pelvic region
Urinary incontinence
Sleep difficulty/Depression
Sexual difficulties
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Diagnosis
There are no specific tests to diagnose IC.
It usually begins by ruling out other illnesses, such as bladder cancer.
Diagnosis is done by -
Physical examination
Urinalysis/urine culture
Cystoscopy to inspect the bladder
Biopsy
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TreatmentOral medications include heparinoid drugs, anti histamines, aspirins, ibuprofen
Bladder distention
Bladder instillation, also called bladder wash
Surgery, if the patient does not respond to other treatments
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Management - Diet
Certain foods aggravate the condition. They include -
Alcohol
Spices
Chocolate
Foods with Vit
C/artificial sweetenersCaffeinated foods
Wine/beer/soy sauce
Yogurt/cheese/sour cream
Raisins/bananas
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Management - Other methodsAvoid smoking, as it worsens symptoms
Regular exercises brings symptom relief
Bladder training techniques are useful
Understanding the condition and seeking support groups help to better tackle the condition

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