Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a painful inflammatory condition that affects the bladder. Patients with IC may first visit a urologist because they experience frequent, painful urination and pelvic pressure. However, a urologist may also need to treat IC patients for pelvic floor dysfunction.

As you’ll learn by watching this video, patients with IC have a higher risk of developing pelvic floor dysfunction. In these patients, the pelvic floor muscles are too tense, leading to symptoms such as muscle spasms, pain during intercourse, and constipation.

At Urology Associates, P.C., you’ll find compassionate care for interstitial cystitis , pelvic floor dysfunction, and similar health problems such as sexual dysfunction. Call (855) 901-1338 and let our urology team in Nashville know how we can help you reclaim your health.

Interstitial Cystitis (IC) is a condition of the bladder and urethra that affects both men and women. The condition can be diagnosed and treated by a urologist at a urology center near you. Before you visit your urologist, you should be familiar with the most common signs and symptoms of interstitial cystitis so that you can give an accurate description of how they affect you.

The primary symptoms of interstitial cystitis are bladder pain, incontinence, and urinary urgency and frequency. Many women mistake these symptoms for a urinary tract infection and seek UTI treatment from a urologist. Bladder pain will worsen as your bladder fills, and weaken after urination. Pain may also occur in the abdomen, urethra, or vaginal or testicular area. Pain may worsen during sex or while exercising. You will feel the urge to urinate frequently, and experience continuous pressure in your lower abdomen.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms and would like treatment for IC or incontinence near Nashville , visit Urology Associates, P.C. Our urologists can evaluate your symptoms and determine if you suffer from interstitial cystitis or a urinary tract infection. To schedule an appointment, call (888) 329-7700 today.

Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a condition that affects the bladder. Women are most often diagnosed with IC, and there are currently two recognized subtypes of this condition. The majority of IC cases are non-ulcerative IC, which involves very small hemorrhages of the bladder wall. Ulcerative IC is characterized by patches of bleeding on the bladder wall. IC is a complex condition that can significantly decrease quality of life. However, patients can consult a specialist in urology to explore their treatment options.

Symptoms

The symptoms of IC can vary widely from patient to patient. For any particular patient, the symptoms can evolve over time and may develop in sudden flare-ups. Certain factors can trigger a flare-up of symptoms, such as menstruation, sexual activity, stress, and exercise. These symptoms may include chronic pelvic pain, pain between the vagina and anus, pain during sexual intercourse, and pain when the bladder becomes full. Other possible signs of IC include the urgent need to urinate and frequent urination in small amounts. It’s not uncommon for a patient with IC to urinate dozens of times per day.

Causes

Specialists in urology haven’t yet been able to determine exactly what causes IC. However, it’s thought that it may be linked to a problem with the epithelium of the bladder. If the epithelium leaks, the toxins can irritate the wall of the bladder.

Treatments

Finding the right treatment for any particular patient with IC can be difficult. What works well for one patient may be ineffective for another. Urology specialists may try combinations of treatments, including oral medications such as antihistamines, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), tricyclic antidepressants, and pentosan polysulfate. Bladder distension, nerve stimulation techniques, or the insertion of medications directly into the bladder are other treatment options for IC .

At Urology Associates, P.C., our urologists have the in-depth knowledge and extensive experience necessary to provide effective, comprehensive treatment plans for patients with interstitial cystitis. For help with IC, UTIs, kidney stones, or other urologic conditions in Tennessee, call (888) 329-7700. New and current patients can browse our website to read more about common urologic conditions and their treatment.