Painful Bladder Syndrome

Painful Bladder Syndrome/Interstitial Cystitis

Painful Bladder Syndrome (PBS/IC), also known as Interstitial Cystitis, is a debilitating, chronic, inflammatory bladder disorder of unknown cause. Typical symptom is pain in the bladder and it is usually associated with a frequent and urgent need to urinate day and night.

This medical condition affects about 0.2% to 6.5% of the population older than 15 years old. Most cases of PBS/IC are associated with women (90%) but men can also develop it (10%).

The pain, pressure, discomfort or unpleasant sensation may increase as the bladder fills. Urinating often alleviates the pain and gives a temporary sense of relief. Pain may be present in the urethra and rectum, the area above the pubic bone, the inside of the thighs, the lower abdomen, the lower back and the genital area. Pain may also occur during or after sexual intercourse.

The symptoms come and go and occur in attacks known as “flares”. Although the symptoms may disappear spontaneously, they keep returning (chronic) and may worsen if left untreated.

Disclaimer: This article is for information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions.

Reference: www.painful-bladder.org/pdf/Diagnosis&Treatment_IPBF.pdf