Bladder Pain

You Don’t Have to Live with Chronic Bladder Pain

Common in both men and women, interstitial cystitis (IC) is a chronic and painful condition of the bladder. Sometimes also referred to as bladder pain syndrome (BPS), it can be mistaken for a urinary tract infection; however, in cases of IC or BPS, there is actually not an infection present. 

Symptoms of Interstitial Cystitis

Symptoms of interstitial cystitis include a frequent urge to urinate, as well as bladder or pelvic pain. Frequency usually leads to urgency, which is a feeling that may not go away, even after urinating. For some patients, symptoms can feel mild, but for others, they can be quite severe. In addition, symptoms can range from being persistent; however, for other patients, symptoms tend to come and go. Some patients can pinpoint things that worsen their symptoms, such as certain drinks or food. Stress can also make symptoms worse. For women, their symptoms may also change around their menstrual cycle. In addition, those experiencing IC may have sexual problems, such as pain during or after sex. Some patients who have interstitial cystitis may also have health issues such as irritable bowel syndrome, fibromyalgia, or other pain syndromes.

How IC / BPS Can Impact Your Life

There is virtually no aspect of life that may not be affected if you are experiencing pain associated with interstitial cystitis or bladder pain syndrome. From socializing to exercising, from work to sleep, and everything in between, consistent bladder pain should be evaluated with your physician and is not a condition you should just try to live with. 

Who Can Be Impacted by IC / BPS?

While it is usually two to three times more likely for women to be affected by IC / BPS than men, it’s difficult to know just how many patients are living with chronic bladder pain because – at present – there is not a standard way to diagnose IC or BPS. In addition to women being more likely than men to be affected, though, the risks of having IC / BPS also tend to increase with age. 

Treatment Options 

At Avant Concierge Urology, we’re always looking out for the best interests of the patients, and our goal is to quickly and effectively reduce any discomfort. There are a number of ways to approach the treatment of interstitial cystitis, ranging from medications to biofeedback, from physical therapy to pain blocks during minor surgical procedures. Trust the team at Avant Concierge Urology to work with you to find the best treatment option for your unique situation, so you can go back to living a life free from the debilitating pain associated with interstitial cystitis.