Bladder pain and pressure can cause a lot of discomfort. You may experience pain in the lower abdomen, have trouble urinating, or may even develop sexual problems. But knowing what is causing all of these issues should be your top priority.
One common explanation is interstitial cystitis, a chronic condition that leads to an inflamed or irritated bladder wall. Unfortunately, there is no cure for this condition. However, treatments can help manage symptoms and alleviate discomfort. Additionally, there are certain habits that can help provide relief and help patients gain control over their bladder functions.
Common Causes Of Interstitial Cystitis
Interstitial cystitis, also known as painful bladder syndrome, is a long-term condition that can cause pain in the bladder and abdominal area in addition to urinary problems.
According to StatPearls Publishing, while the exact cause of interstitial cystitis remains unknown, current research suggests a complex interplay of factors, including chronic inflammation, autoimmune processes, neurogenic factors, and urothelial dysfunction.
The research notes that the condition is often associated with increased mast cell activity, fibrosis, and changes in the bladder's sensory nerve pathways. Additionally, some studies have linked interstitial cystitis to exposure to certain substances, such as ketamine, which can cause similar symptoms.
Also Read: Signs You Have A Weak Bladder: Doctor Shares Ways To Treat It
In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Shailesh Chandra Sahay, Director - Urology, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Patparganj, also suggests that women, who are 90% of interstitial cystitis patients, middle-aged individuals, and those with family history are most at risk of the condition.
Additional risk factors include:
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- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Fibromyalgia
- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)
- Endometriosis
- Vulvodynia
- Autoimmune disorders
- Hormonal changes
- Pelvic trauma
Symptoms Of Interstitial Cystitis
While symptoms of interstitial cystitis may vary from person to person, some of the common ones include:
- Persistent pelvic pain or pressure
- Urinary frequency and urgency
- Painful urination
- Nocturia, or waking up frequently at night to urinate
- Discomfort during intimacy
- Lower abdominal or back pain
Daily Habits That Can Help Manage Interstitial Cystitis Symptoms
According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDKD), treatment plans for interstitial cystitis include:
- Lifestyle changes
- Bladder training
- Physical therapy
- Medicines
- Bladder procedures
Dr Sahay says certain daily habits may also help improve symptoms and alleviate pain and discomfort. These include:
- Drinking 8-10 glasses of water/day
- Avoiding acidic, spicy, and caffeinated foods and drinks
- Regular exercise (yoga, walking, swimming)
- Stress management (meditation, deep breathing)
- Getting 7-8 hours of sleep/night
- Practising relaxation techniques
- Keeping a food and symptom diary
Foods To Eat and Avoid If Your Have Interstitial Cystitis
For those trying to manage their bladder health and interstitial cystitis in particular, here are foods you must incorporate in your diet:
- Alkaline-rich foods
- Fruits (bananas, apples)
- Vegetables (leafy greens, bell peppers)
- Whole grains
Foods to avoid:
- Acidic foods (citrus, tomatoes)
- Spicy foods (chilli peppers, wasabi)
- Caffeinated beverages
- Carbonated drinks
- Processed and high-sugar foods
Exercises To Perform For Better Bladder Control
The good news is that some exercises can also improve bladder function and alleviate symptoms associated with interstitial cystitis. These include:
- Pelvic floor exercises (Kegels)
- Bladder training exercises
- Core strengthening exercises (planks, bridges)
- Yoga (gentle styles like Hatha, Yin)
- Physical therapy
How To Manage Stress
Stress-management techniques can reduce pressure on the bladder and reduce the risk of interstitial cystitis symptoms. These include:
- Mindfulness meditation
- Deep breathing exercises
- Progressive muscle relaxation
- Yoga
- Visualisation and guided imagery
- Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT)
Conclusion
Interstitial cystitis is a common and chronic condition that affects approximately 10–40 lakh men and people assigned male at birth (AMAB) and 30-80 lakh women and people AFAB in the United States, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Unfortunately, there is no cure for the condition. However, with healthy lifestyle choices, which include healthy foods, regular exercises, and stress management, the condition can be managed effectively.