Interstitial cystitis(IC) or bladder pain syndrome is a clinical syndrome characterized by daytime and nighttime urinary frequency, urgency, and pelvic pain of unknown etiology. The symptoms of this condition vary among individuals and may even vary with time in the same individual. The term “cystitis” refers to any inflammation of the bladder. Despite considerable research, universally effective treatments do not exist for interstitial cystitis, and therapy usually consists of various supportive, behavioral, and pharmacological measures. Surgical intervention is very rarely indicated.
Over time, interstitial cystitis can cause physical damage to the bladder wall. Scarring and stiffening of the bladder may occur as a result of the chronic inflammation, leading to a decrease in bladder capacity. Many scientists believe IC is actually several diseases. Many use the term painful bladder syndrome (PBS) to describe urinary pain for which they cannot find a cause. There is no one test to tell if you have IC/PBS. Doctors often run tests to rule out other possible causes of symptoms.
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