Interstitial Cystitis - Symptoms and Treatment

Interstitial Cystitis

Bladder pressure from interstitial cystitis (IC) is a concern for many women who must endure the feeling of pressure in their bladder, causing from mild to severe discomfort. In addition, these women suffer from the symptom of urinary urgency and frequency.

Interstitial cystitis can be triggered by a variety of reasons such as the body reacting to a change in hormones or a response to ingesting acidic foods, including some substances like vitamins. Other reasons why a woman may suffer from interstitial cystitis may include stress or anxiety, previous pelvic or back injuries especially during the practice of sports or intense exercising. While in some cases interstitial cystitis can simply disappear naturally, in many cases IC may require medical attention to provide relief for its painful symptoms.

A common complaint by women suffering interstitial cystitis is bloating in the lower abdomen especially during the menstrual period, when many patients note they have an exacerbation of their IC symptoms. The most concerning symptom is the excruciating pain some women feel as a result of the inflammation in their bladder. Just as in the case of an overactive bladder, interstitial cystitis can trigger a brain signal that causes women to have a sudden urge to urinate.

Women experiencing interstitial cystitis should manage their diet by avoiding:

  • Coffee, soda and any caffeine-based beverage
  • Citrus-based juices, sports drinks and foods with high acidity
  • Vitamins and supplements known to produce flare-ups
  • Spicy foods and hot sauces
  • Monosodium glutamate (MSG) often found in Asian dishes

If you have a reaction to any of the aforementioned food, drinks or medicines, it is important to consult UroGyn Specialists of Florida. Under the leadership of Dr. Christopher Walker, our practice has been dedicated to serving the needs of women who seek medical solutions to a wide range of ailments. Whether you are feeling uncomfortable or painful interstitial cystitis symptoms or simply being concerned about frequent urination or incontinence, we urge you to call us to make an appointment.

Through the compassionate and diligent demeanor of Dr. Christopher Walker and the rest of his team at UroGyn Specialists, we look forward to finding a solution to your interstitial cystitis. Every patient is different and we will work with you to understand what triggered your interstitial cystitis, how to prevent it, but most importantly, how to help you achieve the relief you seek to this painful medical condition.

Contact UroGyn Specialists of Florida to request an appointment with Dr. Christopher Walker and see what a difference a visit can make in your life to manage your interstitial cystitis symptoms.