I have not been technically diagnosed with IC, the urologists I've seen can't explain my pain so they are treating me like an IC patient. I have recently been put on a new drug called Elmiron. Can you tell me anything about it? Does it work? Is there any new or other treatments for IC that I should know about? Is surgery possible? Does this pain ever go away? Please help.-------------------------------------------------------
Dear Kristen
Thanks for you questions. N.Howe has the correct information about Elmiron but only about 20-30% show clinical benefit after 3-6 months therapy. Fifty percent of women have spontaneous resolution of their symptoms on an average of 18 months. The only surgical treatment for patients is hydrodistention. you are put to sleep and the bladder is over filled with fluid. This bladder stretching has been reported as one of the most effective treatments. This may need to be repeated periodically. Please use the Medhelp site search function to retrieve lots of information about interstitial cystitis , prognosis, diets and medical treatments for interstitial cystitis patients.
More individualized IC care is available at the Henry Ford Hospital and its urban campuses by calling (1 800 653 6568). We can also arrange local accommodations through this number if this is your need. Please bring any physicians’ notes and lab test results that you may be able to obtain. These will help us greatly. This information is provided for general medical education purposes only. Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options pertaining to your specific medical condition.
Sincerely;
HFHS-M.D. MS
* Keyword: interstitial cystitis
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