What is interstitial cystitis?

Interstitial cystitis is a chronic inflammation of the bladder, also known as painful bladder syndrome. While interstitial cystitis describes chronic cases of bladder inflammation, cystitis is the term used for acute instances of the condition. 

What are the symptoms of interstitial cystitis?

In patients suffering from cystitis, the bladder wall may be completely swollen which can cause pain and may even cause blood to be expelled in the urine. This can result from scarring or stiffness in the bladder which prevents it from enlarging when filled with urine. Therefore, the symptoms usually include a strong and frequent urges to urinate, increased urinary frequency, and pain during sexual intercourse. 

What are the causes of interstitial cystitis?

The exact cause of recurrent cystitis is currently unknown, although it is understood that it does not result from bacterial or viral infections. Interstitial cystitis is much more common in women than men and is prevalent in those between the ages of twenty and thirty. Cystitis often develops after having sex or during the menopause.

Can interstitial cystitis be prevented?

The main way to prevent chronic cystitis is to try to avoid developing an acute case of cystitis. It is helpful to:

• Drink lots of water and fluids
• Urinate often
• Maintain good hygiene practices 
• Shower rather than take baths
• Do not use aerosols or deodorants in the genital area

How is interstitial cystitis treated?

There is no permanent cure for interstitial cystitis, although the initial treatment of cystitis is usually a course of antibiotics. In interstitial cystitis, treatments are usually focused on improving the symptoms and implementing dietary changes, learning exercises to control the bladder, along with medication.