Sleep Apnea and IC Study

I found some information on sleep apnea and Interstitial Cystitis (IC) that I thought was interesting. 

A study in 2013-14 in Taiwan found that Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) increases the risk of Bladder Pain Syndrome (BPS) or Interstitial Cystitis.  In this restrospective study, we examined the risk of BPS/IC among subjects with OSA during a 3‐year follow‐up.  A retrospective study compares two groups of people: (1) those with the disease under study (cases) and a similar group of people who do not have the disease (controls).

The study finds evidence of a link between Obstructive Sleep Apnea and a subsequent IC diagnosis.  For more information on this study, click the link below [Wiley Online Library].

Sleep Apnea and IC Study

I was treated for sleep apnea whick end up improving my IC symptoms.  I was at the point where I was waking up every 1 to 2 hours to use the bathroom.  Click on the link below to read my post about how I was diagnosed with sleep apnea.

Sleep Apnea and IC

I guess when you think about sleep and IC, this connection does make sense.  When you do not get a good night’s sleep, your body and mind are fatigued.  No matter what disease or condition you are dealing with, your body needs rest and relaxation. 

Sleep is “essential… because it contributes significantly to the restoration and recuperation of physical and mental functioning [Alis Kotler, Judith Reishtein, Patricia Shewokis © 2011 Society of Urologic Nurses and Associates Urologic Nursing, pp. 159-165, 172].

Some of the common symptoms for sleep apnea include [Sleepeducation.org]:

Loud or frequent snoring
Silent pauses in breathing
Choking or gasping sounds
Daytime sleepiness or fatigue
Unrefreshing sleep
Insomnia
Morning headaches
Nocturia (waking during the night to go to the bathroom)
Difficulty concentrating
Memory loss
Irritability

If you suspect you have sleep apnea, reach out to your doctor.