Interstitial Cystitis: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Finding Care

Question
I am currently without medical insurance and have a wonderful G.P. who thinks I may have this condition.  I'm not sure of the proper spelling.  I kept thinking I had bladder infections, and when tested would be negative.  My syptoms are more "annoying" than painful and I often feel a "spazoming" sensation and I also urinate several times a day and at least once during the night.  I am otherwise health and in good shape.  I am 51 years old, have had 4 children.  I am not on any medication.  I cannot afford the invasive and painful test for this condition and am wondering if there's anything I can do to make myself more comfortable and what the medical options are. Thank you for any information you can give me. Cheryle

Answer
Hi

the correct spelling is Interstitial Cystitis

You may very well have the condition. You should look at some of the many webpages posted about this very common condition. There are questionnaires posted on some of these sites that can be as good diagnostic tools as invasive tests.

The one thing to consider though - if your GP has found you to have blood in your urine (even microscopic blood) at a time when you DON'T have an infection, you may need to get a test for other bladder problems ...including but not limited to bladder cancer. If no such problems are found, you should be able to start on some of the natural treatments (diets etc...) for interstitial cystitis you will find in your internet travels.

Don't skip the work-up for other problems though. Your GP can do that part very cheaply.

If you require tests for that work - up , you should try to find a urology residency program in your area. They usually offer sliding scales of payment for women without insurance. The best place to look for such a clinic is the closest medical school.

Best of luck