Interstitial cystitis (IC)- what is it and how do we manage it?
There is so much misinformation floating around about IC that I thought it was time to discuss it. If you have it or are ever diagnosed with it, it is SUPER important that you feel equipped with the knowledge you need to ask questions and advocate for yourself.
Interstitial cystitis is a condition that is diagnosed by ruling out other diagnoses in the presence of symptoms. For example, a person who is experiencing urinary urgency and frequency, but is negative for infection may have IC. Other symptoms of IC include waking up at night to urinate, painful sex or orgasm, pain with bladder filling or emptying, and generalized pelvic pain. If we can confidently say that no other diagnosis can be associated with these symptoms, then we are inclined to believe IC is at play.
Sometimes (rarely) IC is associated with actual changes in the bladder tissue called Hunners lesions. These are ulcers that form on the inside of the uterine wall and occur in about 5-10 percent of patients with IC. Treatment for these lesions may require invasive procedures. The majority of patients do not have these lesions.
There is good news for those experiencing IC symptoms. Proven by research and encouraged by the American Urological Association (AUA), pelvic floor PT should be used as a first line medical treatment for IC. 85% of patients experiencing IC symptoms had a pelvic floor dysfunction. That means pelvic floor PT is completely appropriate for these issues! I highly encourage you to find a pelvic floor PT who is a good fit for you to help you on your journey. In the meantime, here are a few things to keep in mind:
NO KEGELS! Kegels could increase tone in the pelvic floor, worsening symptoms
Practice Breathing- Deep breaths help to down regulate the nervous system. Something needed for those dealing with these symptoms.
Stay hydrated- you may be tempted to drink less water due to your symptoms, but really, you need to do just the opposite!
If you have more questions about IC, holler at me!
Dr. Rachel Atufunwa, PT, DPT