interstitial cystitis

by Diane K. Newman, RNC, MSN, CRNP, FAAN

What is interstitial cystitis?
Interstitial cystitis (IC), is a bladder syndrome found mostly in women that can result in a severe, debilitating, and chronic disorder. In the United States, interstitial cystitis affects approximately 500,000 persons of which the majority are women. The symptoms of interstitial cystitis include pain in the lower abdomen that can be centered on the bladder, urethra or vagina.

Persons with interstitial cystitis have a bladder wall that is tender and easily irritated, which leads to uncomfortable symptoms. Women with interstitial cystitis complain of severe urinary urgency, frequent urination, lower abdominal or perineal pain and pressure, painful sexual intercourse, and, in many cases, urinary incontinence. Interstitial cystitis begins gradually and becomes progressively worse. Symptoms may go away for a period of time (remission), but usually return.

Many persons with interstitial cystitis, especially women, are misdiagnosed. Women with chronic interstitial cystitis and severe nocturia may experience depression due to sleep deprivation. Many doctors believe that interstitial cystitis has psychosomatic origins and tell women patients, “It’s all in your head.” This is not true. The exact cause of interstitial cystitis is not universally understood, but includes a variety of causes such as chronic infection of the bladder, lymphatic disease, autoimmune disorders (self-attacking disease where the body turns on itself), and even psychologic and neurologic conditions.

Evaluating Your Interstitial Cystitis

You should see an urologist who may be able to help you with your problem. Diagnosing interstitial cystitis requires the doctor to take a complete history followed by a bladder cystoscopy. A biopsy of the bladder as well as a gynecologic pelvic examination may also be useful.

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References

Erickson, DR. Interstitial Cystitis: Update on Etiologies and Therapeutic Options. Journal of Women’s Health & Gender Based Medicine 1996; 8(6):745-758.

Sant, GR. Interstitial Cystitis a urogynecologic perspective Contemporary Ob/Gyn. 1998:2-7.

Webster, DC; Brennan, T. Self-care Strategies Used for Acute Attack of Interstitial Cystitis. Urologic Nursing 1995; 15(3):86-93.

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Posted: October 2007
Updated: May 2009

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