Interstitial Cystitis

Interstitial cystitis (IC), also known as bladder pain syndrome (BPS), is a chronic condition involving inflammation of the urinary bladder. While interstitial cystitis may affect all ages and both genders, it is most commonly recognized in women. The average age of onset is 40 years, while 25% of patients are under the age of 30.

Symptoms

The symptoms of interstitial cystitis vary from person to person, and even for the same person over time. Symptoms may include a combination of bladder pressure and pain, pain associated with urination, and urinary urgency. Interstitial cystitis patients urinate an average of 16 times per day, often waking up to urinate at night. Pain levels can vary from mild to intense. Flare-ups periodically occur in response to common triggers such as sexual intercourse, menstruation, certain foods, allergies and stress. Symptoms of interstitial cystitis are often misdiagnosed as a urinary tract infection.

Illustration of Interstitial Cystitis
Illustration of Interstitial Cystitis
Illustration of Interstitial Cystitis
Illustration of Interstitial Cystitis

Causes

Although the exact cause of interstitial cystitis is unknown, current evidence points to a dysfunction of the protective lining of the bladder called the glycosaminoglycan (GAG) layer. As the bladder fills with urine, this mucous lining protects the bladder wall from irritating waste products. In IC patients, the GAG layer becomes “leaky”, allowing diffusion of irritants into the bladder wall, generating symptoms of pain, urgency, and frequency.

Main Menu|Back to Top