At this time there is no cure for IC. There are, however, many available treatment options to help relieve symptoms. For most people with IC, a combination of treatments is the best approach. Finding the optimal individual treatment protocol may also require a period of trial and error.
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Many people with IC report that certain foods appear to irritate their bladder. And, they find that changing what they eat and drink can help control IC symptoms and flare-ups. There are also over-the-counter products and self-help strategies that may help you to control symptoms.
Bladder distention, also known as hydrodistention, is sometimes used as both diagnostic test and initial therapy. As a therapy,
bladder distentions may help improve symptoms.
Bladder retraining: Some patients are able to reduce frequency by using bladder training techniques. A diary to record voiding times is helpful in keeping track of progress.
Physical therapy: Physical therapy (PT) for treating underlying pelvic floor dysfunction in people with IC can yield positive results and provide significant pain relief. Working with a physical therapist who understands IC is the key.
Bladder instillations: Also called bladder cocktails these mixtures of medicines, which are slowly infused into the bladder, can help reduce inflammation and provide temporary repair of the bladder lining.
Electrical nerve stimulation: Neuromodulators send mild electrical pulses to nerves in the lower back and help manage urinary function and relieve IC symptoms.
Surgery: Hunner's ulcers (or patches), present in 5 to 10 percent of IC patients, have been successfully treated with laser surgery. Otherwise surgery is considered only as a last resort.
Your healthcare provider may prescribe other medicines to help you manage IC symptoms.
Revised June 12, 2009