Interstitial cystitis, also known as painful bladder syndrome, is a challenging condition that causes pelvic pain and an overactive bladder. While commonly misdiagnosed as a urinary tract infection before visiting a urology specialist, interstitial cystitis is a chronic disease that affects upward of 12 million people. It can be treated with medication and therapy, but there is currently no known cure. The severity of symptoms can differ dramatically from one patient to another, but here are four common symptoms you’re likely to experience with this ailment. 

4 Symptoms in Patients With Interstitial Cystitis

1. Overactive Bladder

Interstitial cystitis stiffens the sides of the bladder wall. As a result, many patients suffer from an overactive bladder with decreased capacity. In severe cases, some individuals may feel the need to urinate in small amounts around 60 times in a day. 

2. Emotional Distress

Due to a highly overactive bladder, it’s common for individuals with IC to experience emotional distress due to unconventional sleeping patterns and a disruption to daily life. 

3. Pain & Inconvenience

While some patients with moderate cases may experience occasional pelvic pain, others have continual discomfort throughout the day. In addition to bladder pressure, requiring access to restroom facilities so frequently can impact your work and personal life. 

4. Discomfort When Intimate

Since patients with IC experience abdominal pain and the need to frequently urinate, it can make sexual intimacy challenging. In addition to causing a strain on personal relationships, those with this ailment may also be at a higher risk of a flare of additional symptoms after being intimate. 

Medical Center Urology has served the High Point, NC, community for over 25 years. If you have an overactive bladder, a urinary tract infection, or incontinence, this urology specialist can help relieve your symptoms and improve your quality of life. To schedule an appointment to determine if you have IC or another chronic condition, call their office today at (336) 882-0220. For more information on this trusted local practice, visit them online.