Diagnosing Interstitial Cystitis
Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a chronic bladder inflammation. It is often severe and very disruptive. Of the over 700,000 people suffering from IC, almost ninety percent are women.
Symptoms of interstitial cystitis are infamously variable and can be radically different from one person to another, or even just for one person from day to day. Individuals suffering with IC often experience an frequent need to urinate. They may experience recurring discomfort, tenderness, pressure, or intense pain in the bladder and surrounding pelvic area.
Specific edibles seem to catalyze symptoms. The most common foods mentioned tend to be vinegar, tomatoes, spicy foods, coffee, chocolate, and alcohol.
IC is usually diagnosed after other conditions with similar symptoms have been excluded with certainty.
The true cause of IC is unknown. Although the symptoms are similar to a bladder infection, IC does not seem to be caused by bacteria. One theory suggests that IC is caused by an infectious agent that has not yet been detected. Another theory holds that IC is some kind of an autoimmune reaction. And then still another theory is that it is related to allergies. Because it varies so much in different people, interstitial cystitis may not be one disease but several diseases.
A variety of treatments are often tried alone or in combination before one is found that works. Oral antihistamines such as hydroxyzine and certirizine may provide relief, and the drowsiness they produce often wears off over time. Other medications used for IC include pyridium and anti-inflammatory drugs. In some cases, medications such as dimethyl sulfoxide and heparin may be introduced into the bladder with a catheter. Actual surgical alteration of the bladder is rarely used to treat IC.
Quercetin is a common natural remedy utilized for the treatment of IC. Quercetin is a bioflavonoid that may have anti-inflammatory properties. A small double-blind placebo-controlled trial found that a supplement containing quercetin reduced symptoms of interstitial cystitis.
However, you should research quercetin side-effects before proceeding with this therapy. In particular, individuals suffering from acid reflux or GERD may want to avoid quercetin. It wouldn’t be wise to risk further problems along the digestive tract while trying to treat your IC.
DISCLAIMER: I’m not a doctor so everyone should consult with your medical doctor before taking any medical advice from the Web.