What is the main cause of interstitial cystitis?

The exact cause of interstitial cystitis isn’t known, but it’s likely that many factors contribute. For instance, people with interstitial cystitis may also have a defect in the protective lining (epithelium) of the bladder. A leak in the epithelium may allow toxic substances in urine to irritate your bladder wall.

What is interstitial cystitis mistaken for?

IC is often mistaken for a urinary tract infection (UTI) or bladder infection, which it is not. Some IC patients do have low levels of bacteria in their urine that don’t normally qualify as a urinary tract infection and others may have atypical bacteria, such as ureaplasm.

What organs are affected by interstitial cystitis?

Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a disorder in which the bladder (the organ that stores urine before it is passed out of the body) is overly sensitive, and usual causes for this, such as infection, cannot be found. The major symptoms are: pain in the pelvic area. urgent need to urinate often (up to 60 times a day).

Can you live a normal life with IC?

But, most patients can get significant relief of their symptoms and lead a normal life with treatment. Most treatments are aimed at symptom control. IC/BPS treatment is often done in phases with constant monitoring of your pain and quality of life.

Who is at risk for interstitial cystitis?

Risk factors for interstitial cystitis include: Gender: Women are more likely to have interstitial cystitis. Age: Most patients are older, with symptoms beginning as early as the 30s or 40s. Coloring: Those with red hair and fair skin are more likely to have it.

What is the best treatment for interstitial cystitis?

Amitriptyline is the medication most commonly prescribed for interstitial cystitis. Elmiron is the only oral drug approved by the FDA specifically for interstitial cystitis. It improves the bladder lining, making it less leaky and therefore less inflamed and painful. The full effect may take three to six months.

Does interstitial cystitis last forever?

For about half the cases, interstitial cystitis goes away by itself. Among those who need treatment, most find relief and get their lives back to normal.

Can interstitial cystitis ever go away?

Does IC make you gain weight?

Side effects include sleepiness, dry mouth, and weight gain. The only oral medication approved by the FDA specifically for the treatment of IC, Elmiron is thought to help repair defects in the bladder lining. It can take several months to reduce pain and urinary frequency, and the effect may be modest.