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Bladder pain syndrome (interstitial cystitis)

A persistent illness known as interstitial cystitis or bladder pain syndrome causes bladder pressure, bladder pain, and pelvic pain.

Bladder pain syndrome (interstitial cystitis) is challenging to diagnose because no single test can definitively identify the disorder.

Symptoms of bladder pain syndrome

Interstitial cystitis symptoms and indicators differ from person to person. Your interstitial cystitis symptoms may change over time and recur in response to typical triggers like menstruation, prolonged sitting, stress, exercise, and sexual activity.

Signs and symptoms of interstitial cystitis include:

  • Pain between the vagina and the anus in women or the pelvis
  • Men’s anus (perineum) and scrotum discomfort
  • Persistent pelvic discomfort
  • A constant, pressing urge to pee
  • Frequent urine throughout the day and night, frequently in small amounts.
  • When the bladder fills, discomfort or pain, and relief after urinating
  • Sexual discomfort

Everyone’s level of symptom severity varies, and some people may go through periods without experiencing any symptoms.

Causes for bladder pain syndrome

BPS (interstitial cystitis) does not have a clear cause. There are other theories as to what might be the cause, however.

      Causes for bladder pain syndrome
      • They consist of;
        • Damage to the bladder lining, which may imply that urinating can irritate the bladder and nearby nerves
        • An issue with the pelvic floor muscles that regulate urination
        • An inflammatory response brought on by your immune system
        • Current urine tests may not detect long-term (chronic) urinary infections (UTIs) in the bladder in some persons with BPS (interstitial cystitis).

        BPS (interstitial cystitis) linked to long-term diseases like fibromyalgia, myalgic encephalomyelitis or chronic fatigue syndrome, and irritable bowel syndrome.

        When to consult a doctor?

        See a doctor if:

        • You get persistent pelvic pain
        • You face urinary inconsistence, interfering with your everyday activities
        • Ask for a quick doctor visit if you have blood in your urination

        Treatments for bladder pain syndrome 

        No one treatment consistently works for everyone, and there is also no proof that they do. It would be best if you tried a few to determine which treatment works for you.

        • Medicines. BPS patients may get treated with tablets or capsules.
        • Implantations of bladders. A doctor can also use a tiny tube known as a catheter to administer some medications directly into the bladder.
        • Procedures and surgery. The doctor may advise surgery and other methods if you have apparent abnormal regions in your bladder or if other therapies are unsuccessful.

      Reviewed by – Dr. Priyanka, MBBS MD Microbiology
      Page last reviewed: 16 JULY 2022