Interstitial Cystitis

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Table of Contents

Other names for Interstitial Cystitis

Painful bladder syndrome
Bladder pain syndrome (BPS)
IC/BPS
Chronic cystitis (non-bacterial)

Synopsis of Interstitial Cystitis

Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a chronic bladder condition characterized by bladder pain, pressure, and urinary frequency or urgency without an identifiable infection. It is part of a broader category known as bladder pain syndrome (BPS) and can range in severity from mild discomfort to debilitating pelvic pain. Unlike urinary tract infections, IC symptoms persist without bacterial cause and do not typically respond to antibiotics.

IC is more common in women, though it can affect all genders and ages. It often overlaps with other conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), fibromyalgia, or endometriosis.

Typical symptoms include:

  • Chronic pelvic or bladder pain

  • Urgency to urinate, even with small volumes

  • Frequent urination (often more than 8 times daily or during the night)

  • Pain during intercourse

  • Fluctuations in symptom severity (flare-ups)

Possible causes or triggers include:

  • Bladder lining damage

  • Autoimmune reactions

  • Nerve dysfunction

  • Chronic inflammation

  • Stress, acidic or irritating foods

When to see a doctor:
Persistent urinary discomfort with no evidence of infection should be evaluated by a urologist. Diagnosis may involve urinalysis, cystoscopy, bladder distention, and ruling out other bladder disorders.

Natural remedies for Interstitial Cystitis

Identify and Avoid Trigger Foods: Common ones include caffeine, alcohol, citrus, spicy foods, and artificial sweeteners.

Use a Bladder Diary: Track symptoms, diet, and flare patterns.

Practice Pelvic Floor Relaxation or Physical Therapy: Especially useful if tight or dysfunctional muscles are involved.

Apply Warm Compresses to Pelvic Area: Eases discomfort during flare-ups.

Stress Reduction Techniques: Stress often worsens symptoms; try yoga, breathwork, or mindfulness.

Ingredients

These raw ingredients are often used in alternative medicine to treat Interstitial Cystitis

aloe vera
turmeric
licorice root
marshmallow
omega-3 fatty acids
reishi mushroom
slippery elm bark
vitamin C
zinc
cornsilk