Interstitial cystitis (bladder pain syndrome) is a complex pelvic pain syndrome that is sometimes difficult for patients and their providers to treat. Why? Because the symptoms that you associate with your bladder and IC can be caused by things outside of your bladder wall. Yes, really! Having to use the restroom every 30 minutes [...]
Working toward a life less interrupted for people with IC/BPS. Living with interstitial cystitis and bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) can be debilitating, but Ironwood is sponsoring a clinical research study of a new potential treatment that could offer relief. The IC/BPS Clinical Study will evaluate an investigational, foam-based drug designed to inhibit pain receptors [...]
One of the challenges that many IC patients struggle with is dry mouth, a common side effect of both antihistamines and antidepressants. To ease these symptoms, we have often turned to dry mouth products that contain xylitol. A sugar alcohol, xylitol has long been considered safe for use in humans and is commonly found [...]
Have you ever fallen on your tailbone? Were you an ice skater, gymnast or football player and experienced multiple falls? Even one fall could play a role in your IC/BPS symptoms today. Now that we know to ask about tail bone injuries, we’ve found that they are remarkably common in the IC patient population. [...]
Enjoy A Soda Again, Italian Style Does Diet Coke, Dr. Pepper or SevenUp trigger a flare? Are you desperate for something similar that WON'T irritate your bladder?? Let me introduce you to an Italian Soda, which is a lighter, more refreshing soda without the acids, caffeine and irritation caused by retail brands. There are [...]
Many newly diagnosed patients balk at stopping their favorite summer drinks. From diet coke to a frosty lemonade, surely you can enjoy your favorite drinks on a hot afternoon. Have no fear. We have many bladder friendly summer drinks the that you can enjoy without triggering a flare. #1 - Refreshing Iced Coffees & [...]
We are delighted to announce that the Spring 2024 IC Optimist is now available for our members. It is now available on all member pages and is also available for purchase in the ICN Shop. In this issue: (1) Inside AUA 2024 - Highlights from the Course on IC/BPS Every Spring, the American Urology [...]
How should we treat pelvic floor dysfunction? Should everyone get physical therapy? What if they don’t respond well to physical therapy? What other treatment options are available. New clinical guidelines for the treatment of pelvic floor dysfunction were released in the Spring of 2024. Developed by eleven women’s health specialists, this first of [...]
I am delighted to share the very exciting news that a new antibiotic, Pivya (pevmecillinam) has been approved by the US FDA for women who struggle with simple, uncomplicated UTI's.(1) This new treatment that could ease the suffering and symptoms of millions of women in the USA struggling with Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis and [...]
Eileen* has suffered with IC/BPS symptoms for many years. In her late 20's, her bladder pain and symptoms have prevented her from working regularly and living independently. Now on Medicaid, finding physicians to actually treat her many symptoms has been remarkably difficult. Her case is complex and her symptoms are intense. Over the years, [...]
