Irritable Bladder

Irritable bladder syndrome (also known as interstitial cystitis) is a condition that affects millions of people, most commonly females. The condition is characterized by pain during urination which can be moderate to severe. Some people also experience the need to urinate often and feel strong pressure in the pelvic area. No one knows for sure what causes irritable bladder syndrome, but studies have shown that most patients with irritable bladder symptoms have some degree of damage to the lining of the bladder. There are also some theories that the condition may be genetic, or the result of an allergy.

If you have any of the following irritable bladder symptoms you may have irritable bladder syndrome:

1) bladder pain

2) waking frequently at night to urinate

3) burning sensation while urinating

4) frequent urination

5) bladder pain that gets worse after eating or drinking certain foods

This condition is something that doctors often misdiagnose. Most commonly a doctor will tell you that you have an overactive bladder or urethritis. If you are not happy with the diagnosis you have been given you should seek a second opinion. There are treatments available to help manage the condition, but there is no cure.

Treatment for an Irritated Bladder

A doctor treating a patient with irritable bladder symptoms will have many different options to consider for treatment. Oral pentosan polysulfate or Amitriptyline may be given to decrease symptoms. Some other options are pelvic floor treatments, biofeedback, bladder instillations, surgery, and different pain control medications. Acupuncture has proven to be helpful, and sometimes a change in diet will produce results. Doctors will often recommend that patients avoid foods that tend to irritate the bladder such as soda, chocolate, alcohol, citrus fruits and juices, or anything very spicy and acidic. Sometimes certain foods will trigger symptoms while other foods do not. Using an elimination diet can help patients to determine what foods to avoid.