Interstitial Cystitis is a chronic bladder condition that causes discomfort and pain in the bladder or pelvic region. The bladder walls become inflamed and irritated, which causes the bladder to become very sensitive. Based on severity, treatment can range from diet to surgery.
   

    The causes of IC are not completely understood. IC may be related to such medical conditions as:
 

- Autoimmune disease.
- Allergies.
- Defects in the lining of the bladder.
- Vascular (blood vessel) disease.
- Mast cell (cells that cause allergic symptoms) abnormalities.
- Presence of abnormal substances in the urine.
- Unidentified infections.
- Symptoms of interstitial cystitis (IC) include the following:
- Suprapubic or pelvic pain.
- Pressure or discomfort when the bladder is filling.
- Having to urinate frequently.
- Urinating small amounts.
 

    There are no definitive tests to diagnose IC/PBS. It is essential to rule out other infections and conditions so your doctor may run different tests, including: Urine sample and urinalysis, Biopsy of the bladder wall and urethra, and Cystoscopy:
 

    There are a series of conventional ways for IC, such as oral medication, bladder instillation, bladder stretching, nerve stimulation, and surgery. However, many patients have pain despite undergoing all of the procedures above.

 

If you are one of them, we can help you!
 

    We address your problem from a more internal and holistic approach, including lifestyle and dietary changes, ask about the history of any allergies or autoimmune diseases, and assess your emotions, stress, and level of anxiety in your life. We also consider all subtle sources of internal or external toxins. Some people with IC/PBS find that certain foods or drinks make their symptoms worse. You may find it helpful to keep a diary of what you eat and drink to see if any foods or beverages cause symptoms and flare-ups. We also recommend you do particular physical activity, learn stress reduction methods, and set aside time for relaxation.
 

    Physical therapy, bladder retraining, guided imagery, acupuncture, and supplements are among other holistic therapeutic methods that we can offer.
Before coming to see us, please be prepared to answer  these questions ;
 

- How often do you feel the urge to urinate with little or no warning?
- Do you immediately feel the urge to urinate after you've urinated?
- Do you ever urinate less than two hours after you finish urinating?
- Do you wake up at night to urinate?
- Do you have pain or burning in your bladder?
- Do you feel pain in your abdomen or pelvis?
- Are you currently sexually active?
- How much do your symptoms bother you?