Read the latest news about IC/BPS and pelvic pain, in-depth expert interviews, the latest research, self-help tips, diet ideas and more in the ICN blog.
One of the first-line treatments for IC is learning about the IC diet and giving it a try. For many patients, removing irritating food or drinks can make a huge difference in their symptoms. An elimination diet helps you best identify your trigger foods. Once you know what foods bother you and are actively [...]
Dr. A. Lenore Ackerman (UCLA) is a rising star in the IC/BPS research community. Her specialty is the study of the microbiome, the bacterial communities that live within our body and, to our benefit, the urinary tract. In 2023, she was the first to suggest that some patients with IC/BPS and bladder pain may [...]
If you have spent much time in an IC support group or forum, you’ve undoubtedly seen some patients share that they have a curve in their spine, known as scoliosis. It’s been a point of discussion here at the IC Network for the past 25 years. We now understand just how and why scoliosis [...]
There’s nothing quite so satisfying as an ice cold milkshake on a hot summer afternoon. The challenge? Aside from often insane calories, many of the milkshakes available from fast food outlets are filled with extra ingredients that can irritate, such as preservatives, colorings and flavorings. It's better to make milkshakes at home, using high [...]
One of the questions we always ask patients who contact the ICN for assistance is to ask if they were traveling prior to the onset of their symptoms. Why? Because certain diseases can be contracted while traveling. Case in point: Tuberculosis (TB), a deadly infection that most often infects the lungs but can also [...]
I am often asked what I think about OTC supplements and their use by IC patients. I never anticipated selling supplements via the ICN website because I was focused on patient education and research. That changed in the early 2000's when some doctors began telling patients that the only treatment for IC/BPS was Interstim®, [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
