HysterSisters Articles for Hysterectomy

SHARING IS CARING

Do This - Not That: Interstitial Cystitis

From the Pelvic Floor Articles List

What are some do’s and don’ts that I should follow to help me manage Interstitial Cystitis?


Interstitial Cystitis (IC), or painful bladder syndrome, is a chronic bladder condition that can cause significant quality of life issues. Symptoms can make it difficult to function on a daily basis, and at times the pain can be overwhelming.

Learning how to prevent or better manage symptoms can be essential for taking control of this condition. Below are some do’s and don’ts you can follow to try to help you take charge of your IC so you can improve your quality of life and hopefully experience less pain.

DO THIS:

• Find a knowledgeable physician.
• Keep a detailed symptom diary to learn personal triggers.
• Follow an elimination diet to learn your food triggers.
• Download an IC diet app.
• Follow an IC diet.
• Avoid your triggers.
• Learn to reduce and manage stress.
• Consider physical therapy.
• Talk to your doctor about bladder installations.
• Be patient when trying medications.
• Use caution when taking prescription pain medications.
• Be careful about bubble baths and soaps.
• Stay hydrated with water.
• Ask about a TENS unit.
• Try bladder training.
• Consider alternatives like guided imagery, acupuncture, and biofeedback.
• Follow a gentle exercise plan.
• Use apps or websites to help you locate restrooms.
• Be proactive when traveling.
• Know your rights.
• Find a support group.

NOT THAT:

• Don’t eat acidic or spicy foods.
• Don’t eat a diet high in potassium.
• Don’t indulge in the 4 C’s–Vitamin C, citrus, caffeine, and carbonated drinks.
• Don’t use artificial sweeteners.
• Don’t drink alcohol.
• Don't get dehydrated.
• Don’t use or drink cranberry products.
• Don’t consider surgery unless all other options have failed.
• Don’t wear tight clothes or belts that put pressure on the abdomen or pelvic region.
• Don’t use strong or harsh chemicals and detergents for your underclothes and pjs.
• Don’t smoke.
• Don’t give up–IC treatments require time and patients.

There are many IC websites, like the IC Network and IC Association, where you can find additional information and support. The more you know about your condition, the better able you can be to manage it successfully.


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.



SHARING IS CARING

Do you have a question?

If you have a medical support question related to this article, come JOIN US in our HysterSisters Community Forums. You will receive helpful replies to your questions from our members. See you there!

HysterSisters Free Hysterectomy Booklet What 350,000 Women Know About Hysterectomy with pages of information, helpful tips and hints to prepare and recover from hysterectomy. Free download for members.

HysterSisters Articles

Diagnosis
Options to Hysterectomy
Treatment Alternatives
Pre-Op Hysterectomy
Post-Op Hysterectomy
Separate Surgeries
Hormone and Menopause
Intimacy after Hysterectomy
Pelvic Floor
Separate Surgeries
Fitness after Hysterectomy
GYN Cancer
Breast Health
Grief and Loss
Endometriosis
Uterine Fibroids
GYN Genetics
Hysterectomy Stories
Ask A Doctor

Find a Surgeon

Debra Richardson, M.D. Gynecological Oncology Clinic - SW Med 2201 Inwood Road Suite 106 Dallas TX 75390 214-645-4673	Shaghayegh DeNoble, M.D. 20 Wilsey Square Suite C Ridgewood NJ 07450 2019577220	Ken Sinervo, M.D. 1140 Hammond Dr., Ste. F6220 Atlanta GA 30328 770-913-0001
Jonas Wilson-Leedy, M.D. 71 Prospect Avenue Hudson NY 24016 518-828-1400	Antonio Gargiulo, M.D. Brigham and Women's Hospital 75 Francis Street Boston MA 02115 617-732-4222	Ted Lee, M.D. Magee Womens Hospital 300 Halket Street Pittsburgh PA 15213 412 641 6412
Geoffrey Cly, M.D. Suite 101, 11123 Parkview Plaza Drive Fort Wayne IN 46845 260-969-5530	Lori Warren, M.D. 3900 Kresge Way Suite 30 Louisville KY 40207 502-891-8700	Clifford Rogers, M.D. The Everett Clinic, Dept. of Surgery and Gynecology 1330 Rockefeller Ave, Suite 120 Everett WA 98201 425 339 5424