Condition: Interstitial Cystitis

Interstitial cystitis is a condition in which the tissues in the wall of the bladder is chronically inflamed. Interstitial cystitis ‘ also called painful bladder syndrome ‘ is often mistaken for a urinary tract infection, and a correct diagnosis can take as long as four years. Common symptoms of interstitial cystitis include feeling the urge to urinate frequently, having a strong urge to urinate, and pain and discomfort while urinating. Interstitial cystitis can also cause pain in the pelvic area and painful intercourse. Long-term damage from interstitial cystitis can include scarring and stiffening of the bladder wall. Women, and those between the ages of 30 and 40, are the most common interstitial cystitis demographics.