The exact cause of painful bladder or interstitial cystitis is unknown. It could be the result of conditions that cause inflammation in various organs and parts of the body. Known as “painful bladder syndrome”.
The serious symptoms of interstitial cystitis can affect the quality of life of the patient, you can feel from mild discomfort to severe pain. It is considered to be a chronic condition that causes pressure and pain in the bladder and sometimes pelvic pain; in women pain in the pelvis or between the vagina and the anus and in men pain between the scrotum and the anus; urgent and constant need to urinate many times day and night. Symptoms can also vary and may appear from time to time, such as with menstruation, prolonged sitting, stress, exercise, and sexual activity. Severe symptoms of interstitial cystitis can affect a patient’s quality of life.
This condition can be diagnosed through: pelvic exam, urinalysis, cystoscopy, biopsy, urine cytology, potassium sensitivity test.
It must be borne in mind that there are several diseases of the genitourinary system that can be confused with cystitis, such as:
- Vaginal yeast infection.
- Skin nephritis.
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- Trichomoniasis
There are a few factors that are associated with a higher risk of interstitial cystitis:
Sex, age and chronic pain disorder related to irritable bowel syndrome or fibromyalgia.
TREATMENT:
- Diet changes
- Stress reduction and pelvic muscle exercises
- Bladder training
- Drugs or substances
- If treatment is not effective, surgery can be tried.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
Lifestyle changes, either changing eating habits or having certain foods or drinks trigger your symptoms. Likewise, it is recommended to stop smoking, reduce stress, stay physically active, and seek medical attention.
Terms used in the text:
Bladder: It is a muscular and hollow organ that stores urine.
Interstitial: That occupies the interstices that exist in a body or between two or more.
Fibromyalgia: is a chronic disease characterized by generalized musculoskeletal pain, with exaggerated hypersensitivity (allodynia and hyperalgesia) in multiple body areas and predefined points (tender points), without demonstrable organic alterations.
Cystoscopy: it is an endoscopic exploration that introduces a thin tube through the urethral meatus, accessing the urethra and urinary bladder.
