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May 25, 2013
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Interstitial Cystitis (cont.)

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Other Therapies

  • Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is delivered through a device that is worn externally. The device delivers mild electric pulses to the bladder area and helps relieve pain and urinary frequency in some people with IC.
  • Bladder distention: The urinary bladder is stretched by filling it with water under general anesthesia. This test used for diagnosing IC may provide relief as well. Bladder distention helps about 30% of people with IC, at least over the short term, probably because the bladder is stretched and its capacity is increased. The procedure may interfere with the transmission of pain signals by nerves in the bladder and thereby provide pain relief. Symptoms may temporarily worsen 24-48 hours after bladder distention but usually improve two to four weeks after the procedure.
  • Sacral nerve stimulation implants are surgically implanted devices being tested for people with IC.
  • Self-help strategies such as bladder training, dietary changes, stress reduction, and low-impact exercise may help alleviate the symptoms of IC.
  • Physical therapy with biofeedback for pelvic floor relaxation may be helpful in some people.

Viewer Comments & Reviews

Interstitial Cystitis - Diet

The eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:

What changes to your diet have helped manage your Interstitial Cystitis?

Interstitial Cystitis - Describe Your Experience

The eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:

Please describe your experience with interstitial cystitis.

Interstitial Cystitis - Symptoms

The eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:

What are the most uncomfortable symptoms of your interstitial cystitis (pain, urgency, feeling of pressure)?

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Read What Your Physician is Reading on Medscape

Interstitial Cystitis »

Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a clinical syndrome characterized by daytime and nighttime urinary frequency, urgency, and pelvic pain of unknown etiology.

Read More on Medscape Reference »


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