Dear Diary

What is Interstitial Cystitis?Interstitial Cystitis (IC) is a chronic inflammatory condition of the bladder. Its cause is unknown. "Common" cystitis, also known as a urinary tract infection, is caused by bacteria and is usually successfully treated with antibiotics. Unlike common cystitis, IC is believed not to be caused by bacteria and does not respond to conventional antibiotic therapy. It is important to note that IC is not a psychosomatic disorder nor is it caused by stress. SymptomsSome or all of these symptoms may be present: FREQUENCY: Day and/or night frequency of urination (up to 60 times a day in severe cases). In early or very mild cases, frequency is sometimes the only symptom. URGENCY: The sensation of having to urinate immediately, which may also be accompanied by pain, pressure or spasms. PAIN: Can be in the lower abdominal, urethral or vaginal area. Pain is also frequently associated with sexual intercourse. Men with IC may experience testicular, scrotal and/or perineal pain, and painful ejaculation. OTHER DISORDERS: Some patients also report muscle and joint pain, migraines, allergic reactions and gastrointestinal problems, as well as the more common symptoms of IC described above. It appears that IC has an as yet unexplained association with certain other chronic diseases and pain syndromes such as vulvar vestibulitis, fibromyalgia and irritable bowel syndrome. Many IC patients, however, have only bladder symptoms. Treatments At this time there is no cure for IC, nor is there an effective treatment which works for everyone. However, a vast majority of IC patients are helped by one or more of the following treatments: The Interstitial Cystitis AssociationThe Interstitial Cystitis Association (ICA) is the only nationwide non-profit organization working on behalf of all IC patients. Its goals are:
To provide the most comprehensive and up-to-date information on IC.
To provide IC patients, their families and friends with a support network.
To educate the medical community and the public about IC.
To advocate in the public and private sectors for research funding and patients’ rights.
To promote and provide research funding to find effective treatments and a cure for IC.
Progress and HopeThe effect of IC on an individual’s life should not be underestimated. IC can be debilitating and may cause the patient to experience feelings of helplessness and despair. Because of the ICA’s success in educating the scientific community about the seriousness of this condition, there has been great progress.
Today, more than ever before, there is an improved understanding and awareness of IC by the medical community and the public at large. Privately and publicly sponsored research is underway to help find effective treatments and a cure for IC. Until that happens, the ICA will continue to help IC patients and their families deal with the effects of the disease by providing information, education and support. The ICA will also continue its efforts to educate the medical community and the general public about interstitial cystitis and to fund research on IC.