Interstitial cystitis specialist near me

Prevent, alleviate, or heal disease—naturally.

Meet our practitioners who specialize in natural Interstitial cystitis (IC) treatment

How it works

Consult with our health coaches who will learn about your symptoms, habits, and goals.

Take personalized home health tests to discover potential root causes of any symptoms or conditions you may have.

Review your results in just days with our functional medicine doctors, nurses, and dietitians who will help you achieve optimal health.

Learn about Interstitial cystitis (IC)

Interstitial cystitis (IC), commonly referred to as painful bladder syndrome, is a chronic condition causing bladder pressure, bladder pain, and sometimes pelvic pain. The pain ranges from mild discomfort to severe. IC is a part of a spectrum of diseases known as bladder pain syndrome (BPS). Understanding this condition is crucial, considering its significant impact on quality of life due to its chronic nature. While its prevalence is difficult to determine due to unspecific symptoms and misdiagnosis, studies suggest that millions may be affected worldwide, with women being more susceptible than men.

Causes

The exact cause of Interstitial cystitis is still unknown, which adds a layer of complexity to its management. However, several factors are believed to contribute to its development, including a defect in the bladder lining, autoimmune response, heredity, infection, and allergy. Unlike other types of urinary tract infections that are caused by bacteria, IC does not have a clear infectious origin which complicates its understanding and treatment options.

Signs and symptoms

- Persistent, chronic pelvic pain - A sensation of pressure and pain in the bladder - Frequent urination, often of small amounts, throughout the day and night - Pain during sexual intercourse - Discomfort or pain during urination

Diagnosing Interstitial cystitis (IC)

Diagnosing IC can be challenging due to the lack of definitive tests. It is often diagnosed after excluding other possible conditions with similar symptoms, such as urinary tract infections, bladder cancer, and kidney stones. Diagnosis typically involves discussing the patient's symptoms, a physical examination, and possibly some tests such as urinalysis, cystoscopy, and hydrodistention to check for bladder ulcers and rule out other conditions.

Prevention and natural treatment

While there is no known prevention for IC due to its unclear causes, treatments aim to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life. Conventional treatments often involve medication, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. Yet, a growing interest in natural and functional medicine approaches has led to new insights into managing IC. Functional medicine focuses on the body as an interconnected system and seeks to address the root causes of diseases, not just the symptoms. In the context of IC, dietary changes have shown promise in reducing symptoms. Eliminating potential irritants such as caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, and acidic foods can help, as these may irritate the bladder. Meanwhile, incorporating foods with anti-inflammatory properties can support bladder health. Stress management techniques such as yoga, meditation, and guided imagery can also be beneficial since stress can exacerbate symptoms. Physical therapy aimed at pelvic floor muscles helps some patients manage pain and improve bladder function. Herbal remedies and supplements such as quercetin, a natural antihistamine and anti-inflammatory, may also offer symptom relief for some individuals. Furthermore, staying adequately hydrated, although it might seem counterintuitive for a condition marked by frequent urination, helps to dilute urine, which can minimize irritation in the bladder. Exploring these natural treatments under the guidance of a healthcare provider familiar with functional medicine can be a valuable part of a comprehensive approach to managing Interstitial cystitis, providing hope and potentially improving the quality of life for those affected by this challenging condition.

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