Severe Pain & Interstitial Cystitis

Interstitial cystitis, or painful bladder syndrome, is a chronic inflammation of the bladder that affects women 10 times more frequently than men. It is characterized by symptoms of pressure in the bladder, frequent urination and pain that is sometimes severe.

• The urinary system

The Facts

• The pain associated with interstitial cystitis fluctuates, and may increase or decrease in severity when the bladder empties or fills. Menstruation may also intensify pain and other symptoms.

Identification

• Severe cystitis pain may also extend to the pelvis, as well as the space between the vagina and anus in women or the scrotum and anus in men. There may also be pain during intercourse and ejaculation.

Solution

• Severe cystitis pain may be treated with the oral medication pentosan (Elmiron), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) or tricyclic antidepressants. Extreme cases may be treated with opioid medications such as codeine.

Prevention

• The cause of interstitial cystitis is unknown, and prevention is not generally possible. Dietary modifications may limit or reduce pain and other symptoms in some individuals.

Considerations

• Interstitial cystitis is frequently misdiagnosed as other disorders, including urinary tract infection and prostatitis. The average length of time between onset of symptoms and a proper diagnosis is four years.