Interstitial cystitis, also called Painful Bladder Syndrome is a condition where patients experience mild to severe pain in the bladder and pelvic region. In addition, patients talk about the need to urinate frequently all through the day and night leading to emotional distress and problems with regular living.

Both men and women experience interstitial cystitis, though more women are likely to develop the condition than men. Although there is no cure for the pain, you can control the discomfort by making certain changes in your routine. Here are some of the things to avoid.

Certain Foods in Your Diet

Research has shown that eating certain foods may cause a flare-up in your symptoms. Accordingly, keep a diary and make a note of the meals you eat. Match the list to the occurrence of the pain, and you may be able to identify the items that trouble you.

For instance, acidic foods like hot and spicy dishes, artificially sweetened drinks and foods, alcohol, or sodas. Avoiding dairy products, citrus fruits, and tomatoes could also relieve the symptoms. Further, you could try having an antacid with your meals to help with the pain from interstitial cystitis.

Constipation and Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Many patients find that constipation and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) seem to trigger the pain. Adding fiber-rich foods to your diet could be a great solution. But, doctors advise that you should make changes in your diet gradually. That’s because the excess fiber can sometimes add to the IBS and cause more bloating and flatulence.

Holding in Your Urine

Going for long hours without emptying your bladder can cause a bout of interstitial cystitis. Ideally, if you’re drinking the recommended 8 glasses of water a day, you should make a trip to the bathroom every two and a half hours or about 7 times in a 24-hour interval.

If you develop interstitial cystitis, your doctor may direct you to take up a bladder controlling program to help you overcome the pain. This program typically includes a detailed schedule of when to use the restroom. You’ll also receive directions on how to control the urge to pee frequently and increase the intervals between visits. Gradually, you should be able to train your bladder and muscles to empty completely at one go. 

Inadequate Intake of Fluids

Many patients seem to think that lowering their fluid intake can help with the need to urinate frequently. Like the expert medical professional treating you will advise, drinking less fluids will only result in concentrated urine.

The walls of your bladder will get irritated and cause interstitial cystitis to flare up. Make sure to drink the right quantity of water every day timed carefully according to the advice of your doctor. An added advantage is that you’ll avoid constipation which is typically one of the causes of the pain.

Weight Gain and a Sedentary Lifestyle

Leading an active lifestyle with regular exercise can help you avoid pain and discomfort. Workouts help stimulate blood circulation so you avoid constipation. You’ll also prevent excessive pressure on the bladder because of obesity.

Interstitial cystitis does not have a cure. But, with the advice of your doctor, you can make certain changes in day-to-day living, so you avoid the symptoms and the psychological distress that goes with the condition.

If you are experiencing chronic pelvic pain, be sure to contact our office for assistance. Dr. McWhorter and his team are specialists in assisting women with pelvic pain and sexual dysfunction issues. Book a confidential consultation to see how we can help you.