Interstitial Cystitis (Painful Bladder Syndrome)
Medically reviewed by the SEDU Clinical Review Board. Detailed pathophysiology, symptoms, and care guidelines.
Clinical Overview
A chronic bladder condition causing pelvic pain, bladder pressure, and urinary urgency/frequency, characterized by glycosaminoglycan (GAG) layer degradation.
Associated Symptoms
- Urinary Urgency & Frequency
- Chronic Pelvic Pain
- Dyspareunia (Painful Intercourse)
Treatment Pathways
- Bladder Instillation (Rescue Solution)
- Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy (PFPT)
- Lifestyle & Anti-Inflammatory Diet
- Acupuncture & Neuromodulation
Causes & Mechanisms
Defects in the protective bladder lining (GAG layer) allowing toxic urine solutes to penetrate the bladder wall, triggering mast cell activation and neural inflammation.
Risk Factors
Diagnosis & Screening
Primarily clinical history and exclusion of active UTI; cystoscopy showing glomerulations or Hunner's ulcers is diagnostic in a subset of patients.
Prevention & Care Guidelines
Dietary trigger avoidance (caffeine, alcohol, citrus, spicy foods), oral pentosan polysulfate sodium, bladder instillations, and physical therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:Is interstitial cystitis an active infection?
No. IC urine cultures will show no bacterial growth, though symptoms mimic a UTI.
Clinical References & Journals
- 1American Urological Association (AUA) Interstitial Cystitis Diagnosis Guidelines, 2022.
- 2Interstitial Cystitis Association (ICA) Patient Handbook.