Interstitial Cystitis & Yeast Infection

Interstitial cystitis and yeast infection both affect the urinary tract. Both conditions can occur independent of each other or at the same time and have similar symptoms. Treatment depends on the type of problem and cause.

Significance

• Interstitial cystitis and yeast infections can both cause painful bladder and urinary tract symptoms including frequent urination, itching and burning.

Types

• Interstitial cystitis is an inflammation of the bladder and can be caused by highly acidic foods such as coffee, soda pop and citrus. Yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of Candida albicans, a fungus that naturally occurs in the mucous lining of the digestive tract and mouth but growth can become prolific and create urinary problems.

Symptoms of Interstitial Cystitis

• Symptoms of interstitial cystitis (IC) include frequent and painful urination and lower abdominal pain. IC is suspected when there are no bacteria present during testing that would indicate a bladder infection.

Symptoms of Yeast Infecton

• In addition to painful and frequent urination and itching, yeast infections may cause a yellow or white vaginal discharge or pungent odor. Sometimes there are no obvious signs of yeast other than the itching, burning or frequent or painful urination.

Treatment

• Treatment for IC includes drinking more water and reducing or eliminating caffeinated beverages such as tea, coffee and soda and reducing acidic foods such as tomatoes and citrus. Treatment for yeast infection includes increasing water intake and reducing or eliminating sugar from the diet. Taking daily acidophilus supplements also helps reduce yeast overgrowth. There are also anti-fungal medications available.