Going on vacation is exciting. You get to explore new places, have a break from your normal routine and maybe even try some IC friendly new foods. But, it can also be overwhelming as you try to figure out what to bring along. What if you get caught by a flare? Do you have [...]
Of all the things we discuss for potential causes of IC, metal allergy hasn't been high on the list. In fact, it doesn't usually even make the list. However, Liz Anderson, an IC patient from Northern California, says her nickel allergy is most likely the root cause of all her IC symptoms. Resolving the [...]
For years now, we've known IC and pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) go hand-in-hand. Many patients have overly tight pelvic floor muscles that at least contribute to their pelvic pain. Treating PFD is important. It typically starts with pelvic floor physical therapy and can eventually include vaginal suppositories or trigger point injections. If nothing else [...]
With food inflation wreaking havoc on budgets throughout the country, Americans are looking for ways to save money. This is especially true for those of us also managing chronic health conditions like IC. On top of our usual costs of medications, co-pays and other treatments, we also have to figure out how to stretch [...]
One of the fun parts of traveling or being out and about can be eating different foods than usual. Road trips are made for snacks. But really, any time you're on the go, snacking is an option! Whether you're going on vacation, spending time outdoors this summer or just in the midst of a [...]
Love it or hate it, social media has become incorporated into modern life. In fact, 77.4% of American adults have social media in 2024, and the average user spends 143 minutes a day on it.(1)(2) While social media can have its benefits for offering support for IC patients, some recent studies have found its [...]
Finding the right gift idea for moms can be challenging. In fact, when asked for gift ideas, most moms answer they don't care. That's not at all helpful when you're shopping! And, having been a mom myself for 14 years now, I get it. Honestly, most of what I truly want can't be bought [...]
Whether it's your anniversary, a regular Saturday night or a rare night off without your kiddos, date night is an important part of successful relationships. But, making those date nights happen when a flare strikes (or you just feel plain awful) is a challenge. In nearly 25 years of being married, my husband and [...]
Winter weather is notorious for drying out skin. As a lifelong Midwesterner, I understand this incredibly well. (In fact, as I'm typing this article, I'm excited to see our temperature has reached the double digits for the first time in a few days!) From the brutally cold winds in winter to the dry heat [...]
I love to plan. I have a paper planner, a digital planner and lists for everything. Of all the things I plan, though, I haven't often thought about creating a wellness plan. In having an unpredictable health condition like IC, making plans can sometimes be frustrating because we never know how we're going to [...]
