interstitial cystitis

[bev2009]

I have recently been diagnosed with IC.  I will be following up with the urologist regarding medication. Right now I am just taking heavy painkillers, tramacet which I really don't like doing.  Is there something I could digest or drink as in a cleanse that would improve my condition.   Have any forms of natural supplements that are  anti-inflamatory or proven effective?

[David A Burks, MD]

HI,  There are many treatments for the symptoms of IC.  In terms of the non-prescription options, I agree with the comments below that many patients find that baking soda helps alkalinize the urine, blocking the acidic affect that many foods and drinks have on the bladder. I also recommend that everyone look at the website "ichelp.org" and adhere to the ICA diet that eliminated caffeine, acidic foods, spicy foods, tomatoes etc.  L-Arginine was proven ineffective in IC but some people feel it works.  In tems of preseciption agents, I usually start everyone out on a low dose of Elavil 10mg then increase slowly to 25-75mg as tolerated. Some patients respond to Atarax and others to Elmiron.  You should find all there meds on the website.  Good Luck      

[wordh]

I hope you are able gain control over the pain soon. Once you start restricting your diet you will begin to see an improvement. I have found the main culprits are coffee, tea, coffee, spicy foods, and tomatoes. Remember you are trying to reduce the acidity within your bladder. Yes, the diet is restrictive but it is worth it to be out of pain.

The baking soda REALLY works however, be very careful if you are trying to restrict you sodium. I take 1/4 of a teaspoon every couple of hours until I start feeling better. For me it is the difference between suffering or feeling ½  way normal.

Take care.

[nikki48]

I found that bubble baths, talc powder ,coke ,and spicy foods, and being unwell made me get infections. all the stuff i enjoy. :(
When i have a infection i find it's best to relax, i have a nice warm bath (no bubble bath or strong perfumed soaps) with a magazine, then have a snooze for a while, this always helps, i find when i relax my muscles also relax which helps me empty my bladder fully and i feel 100 % again. You should try it. :) Hope it helps for you too.

[wordh]

I choose a more gentle approach to treatment. I refused prescribed medication. I do not take any prescribed medication at this time. However, I am taking L-Arginine, Aloe, and baking soda when necessary.

[wordh]

I was diagnosed with IC earlier this summer. I am NOT taking any perception medications. Immediately upon diagnosis, my doctor advised me to CHANGE my diet. Best advice he could have made to me. It made a significant difference in the level of pain and frequency I was suffering. So while you are waiting I would highly suggest to Google IC. Most any IC site will provide dietary guidelines.

Additionally, in addition to dietary changes I routinely take ¼ teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water. Believe it….it helps a lot.

[kys]

A related discussion, Cystiscope Procedure was started.

[bev2009]

I really appreciate that you took the time to inform me.  This was very helpful and I will try both the L-Arginine and baking soda, daily.  Many thanks.  Bev