CYSTITIS AND INTERSTITIAL CYSTITIS
What is Interstitial Cystitis?
Interstitial Cystitis (IC) is a chronic inflammation of
the bladder wall. ‘Common’ cystitis is a urinary
tract infection caused by bacteria and is usually treated
with antibiotics. Unlike common cystitis, it is believed
that IC is not caused by bacteria, and does not respond
to conventional antibiotic therapy. It is important to note,
however, that IC is not a psychosomatic disorder, nor is
it caused by stress.
What are the differences between IC and bacterial
cystitis?
Interstitial Cystitis
Long term urinary frequency
Clear urine
No bacteria present
Temporary relief during voiding
Symptoms not relieved by antibiotics
Pain and discomfort with bladder filling
Symptoms continuous and permanent
Bacterial Cystitis
Frequency during attacks
Cloudy, smelly urine
Bacteria show in in urine test urine test
Burning pain during voiding
Symptoms relieved by antibiotics
Symptoms unrelated to bladder filling
Attacks tend to be short and last only a few days
Who is affected?
IC can affect males and females of any age or race, although
it is most commonly found in women.
What causes IC?
No-one knows what causes IC, which is why money is needed
to be spent on medical research. IC cannot be caught from
another person.
If you suffer from IC the main symptoms are:
FREQUENCY
Day and/or night frequency of urination (up to 60 times
a day in severe cases). In early or very mild cases, frequency
is sometimes the only symptom.
URGENCY
The sensation of having to urinate immediately may also
be accompanied by pain, pressure or spasms.
PAIN
Can be in the abdominal, urethral or vaginal area. Pain
is also frequently associated with sexual intercourse.
Information Courtesy of:
The Interstitial Cystitis Support Group
For Further information and help visit the website
www.interstitialcystitis.co.uk
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