Interstitial Cystitis - Hystersisters Hysterectomy Article

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Interstitial Cystitis

Interstitial Cystitis

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What is interstitial cystitis?

Interstitial Cystitis, or IC, is also known as painful bladder syndrome. Symptoms of IC include intense pelvic pain, a persistent urgent need to urinate, many small urinations throughout the day and night, and pain during intercourse.

Causes of IC might include infection, trauma from pelvic surgery, autoimmune disorders, or inflammation of pelvic nerves. Though there is speculation that sexual abuse is a contributing factor to the development of IC, there is no proven connection. The condition is chronic, or ongoing, and there is no cure. However, there are ways to minimize the symptoms and manage IC well enough to restore one’s quality of life.

Treatment for IC begins with dietary restrictions to eliminate foods and drinks known to trigger IC flare-ups, such as citrus and cranberry juices, coffee, tea, sodas, alcohol, artificial sweeteners, and spicy foods. Other treatments include stress reduction, physical therapy, antihistamines, bladder instillations, immunosuppressants, and surgery. Surgery is considered a last resort since it is risky and does not always yield positive results.

Pain management is a large part of managing life with IC. Over-the-counter painkillers and anti-inflammatories can help. Topical painkillers applied to the vaginal tissues can also help. These include patches and vaginal suppositories. For acute pain, your doctor may prescribe narcotic painkillers. Use these with caution as they often have unpleasant side effects and can be very addictive.

This content was written by staff of HysterSisters.com by non-medical professionals based on discussions, resources and input from other patients for the purpose of patient-to-patient support.

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IC/PBS -- Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome

Multiple Procedures at the Same Time

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Iris Orbuch, M.D. 202 Spring Street 2nd Floor New York NY 10012 212-343-3040	David Newman, M.D. 10030 Edison Square Drive, Suite 100A Concord NC 28027 704-403-7670	Nonnie-Marie Estella, M.D. 10 Research Place Suite 520 North Chelmsford MA 01863 978-459-8300
Quanita Crable, M.D. 8160 Walnut Hill Lane Ste. LL-001 Dallas TX 75231 (469)364-3764	Aram Bonni, M.D. 25108 Marguerite Parkway Suite A-259 Mission Viejo CA 92692 949-916-2100	Jon Nielsen, M.D. 9825 Hospital Dr. Suite 205 Maple Grove MN 55369 763-587-7050
Geoffrey Cly, M.D. Suite 101, 11123 Parkview Plaza Drive Fort Wayne IN 46845 260-969-5530	Jennifer Hayes, M.D. Visionary Centre for Women 2695 Ulmerton Rd Clearwater FL 33762 727-540-0414	Devin Garza, M.D. 12201 Renfert Way, STE# 215 Austin TX 78758 512 425-3830

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