What Is Interstitial Cystitis?

 

Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a complex, chronic disorder characterized by an inflamed or irritated bladder wall. It can lead to scarring and stiffening of the bladder, decreased bladder capacity, and glomerulations (pinpoint bleeding). IC may also be known as:

  • Painful bladder syndrome
  • Frequency-urgency-dysuria syndrome

Bladder-Uro

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What causes IC?

The cause of IC is still unknown and patients do not respond to antibiotic medication. Researchers are investigating many theories to understand the causes of IC and to determine appropriate treatments.

Latest Interstitial Cystitis News
Spouse can help in painful bladder problem

November 12, 2010 — NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - Spouses who provide pleasant distractions can take their partners' minds off an exhausting and excruciating bladder condition, a new study finds.

Ketamine abuse damages bladder, kidneys

December 15, 2008 — NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - Ketamine, widely abused as a party drug and sometimes known as Special K, can cause inflammation and contraction of the bladder leading to possibly irreversible kidney damage, according to a report from Hong Kong.

Nerve stimulation may ease cystitis symptoms

July 28, 2008 — NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - Electrical stimulation of a nerve in the lower leg for 30 minutes twice weekly benefits some people suffering from interstitial cystitis, doctors have shown.

Select news items provided by Reuters Health