Interstitial Cystitis

What is interstitial cystitis or painful bladder syndrome?

Interstitial cystitis affects the bladder, the hollow organ that stores urine. A properly functioning bladder is able to fill up — think of a balloon — and at maximum capacity, it signals that you need to urinate. But with interstitial cystitis, the signal may come too often, and lesser amounts of urine are released when you do urinate.

What are the symptoms of interstitial cystitis?

Interstitial cystitis signs and symptoms include:

• Pelvic pain
• Frequent urination even through the night (which can cause a lack of sleep)
• Constantly feeling like you need to urinate
• Pain during sexual intercourse

In very severe cases, you may feel the need to urinate more than 40 times in one day. You may even feel slight pain, tingling or burning when you urinate. Often these symptoms are similar to a urinary tract infection and can be mistakenly diagnosed without the expertise of board-certified, trained urologists like the Heys.

How do I find out if I have interstitial cystitis?

The doctors will conduct a variety of tests to determine the root cause of your symptoms. These tests or diagnostic tools may include:

• Medical history: Greater likelihood if there is a family history of interstitial cystitis
• Urine test: Analyzing urine for a urinary tract infection, cancer or interstitial cystitis
• Pelvic exam: Examination of your abdomen and genitals

The doctors have a variety of other tests in their arsenal and will help you to make a treatment plan once diagnosed.

How is interstitial cystitis treated?

There isn’t a simple cure or treatment for interstitial cystitis. Often, physical therapy, oral medications, and surgery are used in combination to relieve symptoms.

Physical therapy allows you to strengthen the pelvic muscles. Medication provides pain management, and surgery is used as a last resort. The doctors may also suggest lifestyle changes including your diet, exercise, quitting smoking and reducing stress.

If you are experiencing frequent urges to urinate, treatment from Dr. Hey or Dr. Hey Jr. may provide relief. Call the office or request an appointment online today.