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Interstitial cystitis (sometimes called painful bladder syndrome) is a condition characterized by chronic bladder or pelvic pain and the frequent urge to urinate. This is, in turn, caused by chronic inflammation of the muscle layers of the bladder. Interstitial cystitis is much more common in women than in men.
If you are experiencing bladder pain or other symptoms, reach out to the women’s health experts at Dignity Health. We deliver personalized care including diagnosis and treatment of interstitial cystitis. Find a Doctor to schedule an appointment today.
Interstitial cystitis symptoms can include:
The discomfort of interstitial cystitis can be nothing more than a burning sensation that is mild, or it can be severe pain. This discomfort can be steady, or it can fluctuate. For many women, symptoms are worse during menstruation. People can go into periodic remission, in which there are no symptoms of the condition at all.
No one knows what causes interstitial cystitis. Some researchers think interstitial cystitis may not be a single disorder, but rather an element of several different chronic inflammatory conditions, such as fibromyalgia and irritable bowel syndrome. Many of these conditions respond to the same treatment strategies. Other potential causes include:
While the exact cause of interstitial cystitis is still not known, several risk factors can play a role in its development. These include:
Many researchers are also beginning to believe that family history can play a role in the development of interstitial cystitis.
Since the cause of interstitial cystitis is unknown, there is nothing specific you can do to prevent it. However, you can take action to maintain the health of your pelvic floor muscles and your bladder. Doing exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor and ensuring you drink enough fluids and urinate when necessary (rather than holding it in) will help. It is also important to avoid urinary tract infections by maintaining good personal hygiene.
The information contained in this article is meant for educational purposes only and should not replace advice from your healthcare provider.