Interstitial cystitis

Updated: 2023-10-17

Description

This ongoing, called chronic, condition causes bladder pain and pressure.

Overview

Interstitial cystitis affects the organ that stores urine, called the bladder. The condition also is called painful bladder syndrome. The risk of getting this condition is higher in women, people in their 30s or older, and people who have other ongoing pain conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome or fibromyalgia.

Symptoms

Bladder pressure, bladder pain, needing to urinate often and needing to urinate right away are some symptoms. Symptoms get worse as the bladder fills and get better as the bladder empties. Some things, such as sitting for a long time, being stressed, having sex and exercising, can make symptoms worse.

Treatments

Treatments such as medicines, physical therapy and procedures that stimulate nerves might help relieve symptoms.