“IC belly” is a common term for the sudden swelling and bloating of the lower abdomen that people with Interstitial Cystitis (IC) experience, often during a flare. It appears as a full, distended, or swollen belly in the lower abdominal area and is usually accompanied by other Interstitial Cystitis symptoms like pelvic pain, pressure, and urgency to urinate.
Bloating or swelling of the belly (“IC/BPS belly”) is a common complaint among people with IC/BPS. Excess gas⛽️ and distention of the abdomen may worsen IC/BPS symptoms.
These are the Top 5 things to do if you are struggling with bloating:
- Teas: Peppermint and fennel teas are very soothing to the digestive system.
- Essential oils: Peppermint oil capsules or peppermint oil rubbed on the abdomen.
- Exercise: Gentle yoga poses or going for a walk can help get the digestive system moving and relieve bloating symptoms.
- Mindfulness: Investigate your unique link between stress and bloating. Do you notice a change in bloating when you are more relaxed? Try eating with more intention and relaxation.
- Chew your food: Do you speed through meals? Some bloating can be caused by indigestion of food or eating too fast and swallowing air. The digestion process starts in the mouth and therefore thoroughly chewing your food can help the rest of your digestive system do its job more effectively.
Sources
https://urology.uw.edu/patient-care/conditions-and-treatments/interstitial-cystitis#
https://www.cdc.gov/interstitial-cystitis/about
https://www.ichelp.org/understanding-ic/diet/food-allergies-and-intolerances
https://www.callieknutrition.com/post/bloating-from-interstitial-cystitis
TREATING INTERSTITIAL CYSTITIS 