Interstitial cystis, or IC, is a common and chronic condition caused by inflammation of the bladder. While a healthy adult will urinate about seven times a day, someone with IC may urinate as much as 60 times a day. There is no cure for IC, but there are several treatment options and ways to help manage the condition. The goal is to manage symptoms. Usually, treatments take several weeks until relief begins. While IC can occur at any age, bladder problem are very common in menopausal women.

Bladder treatments

When menopause occurs, the body stops making the hormone estrogen. Estrogen helps keep the bladder's lining healthy. A lack of estrogen, then, could lead to IC. Bladder distention, in which the bladder is stretched to capacity, is one treatment option. Many patients say they feel better after this treatment, although it's common for symptoms to worsen in the first couple of days after treatment. According to WebMD, doctors aren't sure why bladder distension helps patients. Doctors also caution that it doesn't help everyone. Your doctor may also try bladder instillation, also called a bladder bath. Via a catheter, the bladder is filled with a solution made of dimethyl sulfoxide. This is held in the bladder for about 10 minutes, then the bladder is emptied. The treatment is performed on a weekly or biweekly basis for six to eight weeks. After that, it is repeated as needed. Electrical nerve stimulation may be used to stimulate nerves to the bladder. This raises the blood flow to the organ and strengthens bladder muscles. It also triggers pain-blocking chemicals. Wires are placed on the lower back or above the public area to send the electric impulses. Doctors usually discourage surgery unless the patient also has bladder ulcers. However, surgery may be done if doctors can remove scarred or inflamed tissue.

Drugs

You may try oral drugs such as pentosan polysulfate sodium. It may take up to four months for pain relief and six months before frequent urination dissipates. If you do take the drug, you will need to remain on it until it works. Your doctor may also recommend aspirin or ibuprofen to help with pain management. Other drugs that have proven helpful in treating IC are antihistamines and antidepressants.

Diet

While there is no sign that certain foods trigger IC, some patients have found that certain foods cause flare-ups. Try avoiding chocolate, tomatoes, alcohol, spices, caffeine, citrus drinks, high-acid foods and artificial sweeteners. Keep a food diary and record what you eat and flare-ups. You can also eliminate all these foods, then add them back to your diet one at a time.

Home treatment

Try to retrain your bladder. This may prove especially helpful for women who have experienced menopause. Keep a diary and go to the restroom at regular intervals. Incorporate relaxation techniques to remain on schedule. Gradually increase the amount of time between urinating. Learn exercises to strengthen and relax the pelvic floor. Perform regular, gentle stretching exercises as some patients reports this provides some relief.

Source:

WebMD: Interstitial Cystitis

Everyday Health: Understanding Interstitial Cystitis

obgyn.net: Conference Coverage From International Pelvic Pain Society Simsbury Connecticut - April/May, 1999

Resource:

Medicine Plus: Urinary tract infection - adults