General Information on Interstitial Cystitis

Interstitial Cystitis Flare-Ups

Interstitial Cystitis (IC) flare-ups, or periods of increased symptoms, can be triggered by various factors, including stress, certain foods, drinks, and medications 💊 , as well as hormonal changes, infections, and physical activity

Video transcribed above👆.

Here’s a more detailed look at potential causes of Interstitial Cystitis flare-ups 🔥:

Triggers: 

  • Diet: Certain foods and drinks, like acidic or spicy 🌶️ foods, caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated beverages, can irritate the bladder and worsen Interstitial Cystitis symptoms. 
  • Stress: Stress can exacerbate Interstitial Cystitis symptoms, making flare-ups more likely. 
  • Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormones, particularly during the menstrual cycle or menopause, can trigger Interstitial Cystitis flare-ups. 
  • Infections: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) or other infections can worsen Interstitial Cystitis symptoms. 
  • Physical Activity: Certain types of exercise or physical activities can sometimes trigger Interstitial Cystitis flare-ups. 
  • Medications: Some medications 💊, including certain vitamins and supplements, can irritate the bladder. 
  • Pelvic Floor Dysfunction: Problems with the pelvic floor muscles 💪 can contribute to bladder pain and Interstitial Cystitis flare-ups. 
  • Sexual Activity: Some people find that sexual activity can trigger Interstitial Cystitis flare-ups. 
  • Other Conditions: Conditions like fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) may be associated with Interstitial Cystitis and can contribute to flare-ups. 
  • Travel: Long trips travel 🧳 or certain modes of transportation train 🚂 🚘 ✈️ can sometimes trigger IC flare-ups. 
  • Tight Clothing: Wearing tight clothing can sometimes put pressure on the pelvic floor muscles 💪 and trigger Interstitial Cystitis flare-ups. 

Sources🔥

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15735-interstitial-cystitis-painful-bladder-syndrome

https://www.urologysanantonio.com/interstitial-cystitis

https://fwcenterforpelvicmedicine.com/interstitial-cystitis/?amp=1

https://www.brighamandwomens.org/obgyn/urogynecology/interstitial-cystitis

Graphics by Mazoli

Some people (including me) get pain relief by using an ice pack. Placing the ice 🧊 pack below the stomach helps reduce the pain level.

Graphics by Mazoli

Leave a comment