| Abstract: |
This booklet describes interstitial cystitis (IC), a condition that results in recurring discomfort or pain in the bladder and the surrounding pelvic region. Symptoms may include an urgent need to urinate, a frequent need to urinate, or a combination of these symptoms. In recent years, scientists have started to use the term painful bladder syndrome (PBS) to describe cases with painful urinary symptoms that may not meet the strictest definition of IC. Written in a question-and-answer format and using nontechnical language, the fact sheet covers a definition of these urinary conditions; the causes of IC; diagnostic strategies, including urine testing, culture of prostate secretions, cystoscopy under anesthesia with bladder distention, and biopsy; and treatments for IC and PBS, including bladder stretching, bladder medicines, oral drugs, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulations, diet, smoking cessation, exercise, bladder retraining, physical therapy, oral medications, and surgery. The fact sheet briefly summarizes research programs in this area, provides a list of resource organizations for readers wanting additional information, and briefly describes the activities of the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse. 7 figures. 3 references. |