​Interstitial Cystitis

A chronic inflammation of the bladder (muscular organ that stores urine) wall which compromises its ability to stretch as it fills with urine is known as interstitial cystitis. Alternatively, you may also hear it being labelled as ‘Painful Bladder Syndrome’. Although it can affect all adults and children, most of the cases are diagnosed in women. ​

Inflammation is a chemical response to injury or irritation. In the case of interstitial cystitis, no specific cause has been identified for leading to inflammation of the bladder lining. It is possible that a defect in the protective inner lining of your bladder may allow toxic substances in urine to irritate the wall. Normally, the bladder waits to fill itself with urine before signalling your brain to create the urge for urination. But it becomes more sensitive in interstitial cystitis and attempts to empty itself even with small amounts of urine. Long term inflammation results in scarring of the bladder wall, rendering it stiff and unable to expand. This further restricts the volume of urine that can be accumulated, leading to a frequent urge to pass urine. It can be distressing to deal with this disorder and negative consequences include:

• Interference in daily activities of life
  

• Disturbance in social life
  

• Interrupted sleep
  

• Problems with intimacy leading to a strain on personal relationships
  

• Depression

Other medical disorders such as autoimmune disease, allergies, undetected infections and blood vessel diseases are thought to be related. Interstitial cystitis may be associated with chronic pain disorders, so having irritable bowel syndrome or fibromyalgia​ can be a risk factor.

When to seek expert advise

Some of the symptoms of interstitial cystitis can mimic those experienced during a urinary infection or bladder stone. In case you experience any of the above mentioned complaints, get a consult at the ​Section of Urology at the Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi.​