Interstital cystitis

Question 1

Definition

Answer 1

Chronic condition causing bladder pressure, bladder pain and sometimes pelvic pain

Chronic feeling of pressure/pain in the bladder area without infection

Question 2

Aetiology

Answer 2

Undetermined cause

But its likely many factors contribute:
– defect in the epithelium of the bladder, a leak in the epithelium may allow toxic substances in urine to irritate your bladder wall
– a problem with the pelvic floor muscles used to control peeing
– your immune system causing an inflammatory reaction

Question 3

Epidemiology

Answer 3

Uncommon, affecting women over the age of 40

Question 4

Risk factors

Answer 4

Your sex- women more than men

Age- during 30’s or older

Having a chronic pain disorder- such as IBS or fibromyalgia

Question 5

Clinical presentation

Answer 5

Chronic feeling of pressure/pain in the bladder area without infection

Tends to present in flare ups

Can mimic the symptoms of a UTI and pain on intercourse

Dysuria (painful urination) and often severe suprapubic pain

Sudden strong urges to urinate

Needing to pee more often than usual

Waking up several times during the night to pee

Other symptoms:
– urinary incontinence
– Haematuria (blood in urine)

Question 6

Prognosis

Answer 6

May have sexual intimacy problems

Lower quality of life

Reduced bladder capacities

Emotional troubles