Interstitial Cystitis (Bladder Pain Syndrome)
What is interstitial cystitis?
Interstitial cystitis (IC), also known as bladder pain syndrome (BPS), is a long-term condition affecting bladder health. It is characterized by persistent pain and pressure in the bladder region. This discomfort is accompanied by lower urinary tract symptoms that have persisted for over six weeks, without any infection or other identifiable causes.
What is the urinary bladder?
The urinary bladder is a hollow, muscular organ that stores urine before it is expelled from the body. It is part of the urinary tract and is located in the lower abdomen, just behind the pubic bone.
When full, the bladder sends signals to the brain, triggering the urge to urinate. The bladder then contracts, pushing urine through the urethra and out of the body. The bladder works together with a sphincter muscle, which wraps around the urethra and helps control the release of urine.
What causes interstitial cystitis?
The exact cause of interstitial cystitis (IC) is not known, It’s thought to be a complex condition involving a combination of factors, potentially including bladder lining defects, nerve issues, and immune system involvement.
Symptoms of IC/BPS can vary from mild to severe. Some patients experience fluctuating symptoms, while others have persistent discomfort. Although IC/BPS is not an infection, it can mimic the sensations of a bladder infection. Women with IC/BPS may also experience pain during sexual activity.
What are the symptoms of interstitial cystitis?
Interstitial cystitis causes pelvic pain and urinary symptoms, including urinary frequency, urgency, and waking at night to pass urine.
Frequent or urgent urination
Nocturia
Pelvic pain
Management of interstitial cystitis?
A cystoscopy is used to help diagnose inflammation in the wall of the bladder, although symptoms of the disease may be present without visible inflammation in the bladder.
Interstitial cystitis often requires a combination of treatments to settle the symptoms of the disease.
Some people with IC/BPS find that certain foods and drinks make their symptoms worse. Examples of common triggers are:
- Citrus fruits
- Tomatoes
- Chocolate
- Coffee and caffeinated drinks
- Alcoholic drinks
- Spicy foods
- Some carbonated drinks
Meet our team
Meet our team of experienced Urologists who manage interstitial cystitis.
