Bladder pain

Hi,

I'm a 37-year old female who is not feeling very well at the moment! I frequently go through periods of having bladder pain. I do NOT have pain during urination. I am also NOT experiencing increased frequency of urination. Thus, I don't "think" 9?) it's a simple bladder infection.

After I urinate, I have pain in what I think is my bladder. It feels like someone put a match inside me. It is very uncomfortable The pain does NOT go away for hours at a time. This usually lasts for several days. Eventually, pain goes away and I am fine for a few weeks. Then, it comes back. If I take one of those over the counter products for bladder pain, it does help, temporarily.

Could it be a bladder infection even if I don't experience frequency nor pain during urination? If not, what could it be? Why would it last for several days and then go away again? Could there be a polyp or something in my bladder that's causing pain?

Should I see urologist, gynecologist,internist, etc? Which doctor to start with(without wasting time)?

This all seems strange to me given I don't have (I think) the typical symptoms of a bladder infection. What's going on with me?

Any thoughts are appreciated.

Thank you.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

I would first test for an infection via a urinalysis, and tests for sexually transmitted diseases such as gonorrhea or chlamydia.  

Once the obvious causes are ruled out, you may want to inquire about the possibility of interstitial cystitis, an unknown, chronic, inflammation of the bladder.  This should be considered after all other causes are excluded.  This would likely include a cystoscopy to make sure no anatomical causes are present (i.e. polyps).  

A urologist would be the most reasonable option to evaluate you at this point.  

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Thanks,
Kevin, M.D.

[ette]

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