Interstitial Cystitis: Symptoms, Causes, and Support Strategies

Interstitial cystitis is a chronic condition that affects 3 to 8 million women and 1 to 4 million men in the U.S. This painful condition has symptoms like pelvic pain, burning, stinging, bladder discomfort, painful urination, and an urgency to urinate.

There is no known cure. However, strategies exist to help reduce symptoms and improve the condition.

What is interstitial cystitis?

Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a chronic inflammatory pelvic condition. Some symptoms are similar to urinary tract infections (UTIs) and other health problems. Sometimes, the condition is mistaken for chronic prostatitis in men, which may result in underdiagnosis.

The pain can be considerable and debilitating in some cases. Still, it is not considered a disability. Treatment typically involves managing symptoms.

Major symptoms of interstitial cystitis

It is crucial to rule out acute infections or kidney stones before making a diagnosis of IC. In addition, the urinary pain and other symptoms need to be in existence for at least 6 weeks.