INTERSTITIAL CYSTITIS PAIN
Interstitial cystitis pain is a bladder condition that causes problems during urination and possibly longer term pelvic floor pain. This condition is most common in women and affects people aged 30 to 40. Interstitial cystitis pain can have a big impact on ones lifestyle, relationships, work and emotional health.
The condition can be extremely painful, as there is a constant feeling of pain and pressure on the bladder area. People with Interstitial cystitis may experience two types of pain:
– Acute pain that has sudden beginnings and lasts for a shorter period
– Chronic, recurring pain that usually lasts for a longer period of time
CAUSES
There are no specific causes of Interstitial cystitis pain. Some of the most common theories are:
- The body’s immune system attacking the bladder
- A defect in bladder tissue that allows irritating substances to enter the bladder
- Something from the urine that damages the bladder
- Issues with the pelvic floor muscles used during urination
- Allergic reaction
SYMPTOMS
Symptoms for Interstitial cystitis pain can range from mild to severe. For some patients the symptoms may come and go, as it is not an infection. The Interstitial cystitis pain may be worse during periods, after having certain foods or drinks, and when the bladder is full.
The main symptoms of Interstitial cystitis are:
- Pelvic pain
- Sudden urges to pee
- Need to pee more often than usual
- Waking up several times at night to go to the toilet
TREATMENT
There is no single treatment for Interstitial cystitis pain that works for everyone and a patient may have to try several treatment options in order to find their optimal solution.
- Lifestyle changes are the first recommended treatment (stress reduction, avoiding certain food and drinks, & quitting smoking)
- Pain killers
- Planned toilet breaks
- Intravesical medications such as lignocaine and hyaluronic acid
- Physiotherapy with pelvic floor massages
- Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)
