Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome (IC/BPS) is a chronic condition that can dramatically affect your daily life. If you’re living with IC/BPS, you likely experience a range of symptoms that can be both physically and emotionally exhausting. But what exactly does living with IC/BPS entail, and what options are available for managing this condition?
What Does an IC Flare Feel Like?
IC/BPS flares are often described as waves of intense bladder pain, pressure, and a relentless need to urinate. These symptoms can occur suddenly and may last for hours or even days. During a flare, you might feel a sharp, burning sensation in your bladder or pelvic area. This pain can be severe enough to disrupt your daily activities, making it difficult to work, sleep, or enjoy life. Flares can also be unpredictable, sometimes triggered by stress, certain foods, or even sexual activity. Understanding your triggers and working with a healthcare provider to manage them is crucial in reducing the frequency and severity of these flares.
Life Expectancy of Someone with Interstitial Cystitis
The good news is that IC/BPS does not typically affect life expectancy. However, the impact on your quality of life can be profound. Chronic pain, sleep disturbances, and the emotional toll of dealing with a long-term condition can lead to stress, anxiety, and depression. With proper management, many people with IC/BPS can lead full and active lives. It’s important to work closely with your healthcare team to find a treatment plan that works for you.
What is the Cause of Interstitial Cystitis?
The exact cause of IC/BPS remains a mystery, but researchers believe it could be linked to a combination of factors. Some possible causes include defects in the bladder lining, autoimmune reactions, nerve abnormalities, or even certain infections. While the root cause is still unclear, ongoing research is helping to shed light on this condition, leading to better treatment options for those affected.
IC/BPS and Intimacy
You can still be intimate if you have IC/BPS, but it can be challenging. Sexual activity may trigger flares or cause discomfort, making intimacy difficult at times. Communication with your partner is key. Let them know what you’re going through and how they can support you. It’s also helpful to talk with your healthcare provider, who can offer strategies to manage pain and discomfort during intimacy.
Treatments for BPS (interstitial cystitis)
When a specialist has diagnosed you as having BPS (interstitial cystitis), several treatments may help.
.Medications: Medicines such as tablets or capsules may be used to treat people with BPS (interstitial cystitis).
- Bladder instillations: Some medicines can also be passed directly into the bladder using a thin tube called a catheter.
- Supportive therapies and treatments: Some people may also benefit from the therapies and supportive treatments such as physiotherapy, acupuncture, counseling, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), and pain management.
- Surgery and procedures: Surgery and other procedures may be recommended if you have clear abnormal areas (lesions) in your bladder or if other treatments do not work.
Participating in IC/BPS Clinical Research
If you’re struggling to manage your IC/BPS symptoms, you might consider participating in a clinical trial. The American Institute of Research is currently conducting an IC/BPS clinical study to explore new treatment options. Participants in this trial will receive no-cost study-related medication and close medical monitoring and may earn up to $800 for their time and travel expenses.
Who is Eligible for This Clinical Trial?
Participating in a clinical trial not only gives you access to cutting-edge treatments but also contributes to advancing medical research that could help others with IC/BPS in the future. To be eligible, you should:
- Be 18-75 years old.
- Have experienced symptoms for at least six months.
- Meet specific urinary symptom criteria.
Advancing Medical Science-The Role of the American Institute of Research in Clinical Trials
The American Institute of Research (AIR) is a leading clinical site dedicated to advancing medical science through high-quality clinical trials. Located in downtown Los Angeles, AIR focuses on a wide range of therapeutic areas, offering participants access to cutting-edge treatments and innovative care. The institute prides itself on its commitment to patient safety, ethical practices, and contributing valuable data to the medical community. Major pharmaceutical companies choose the American Institute of Research for their expertise, confidentiality, and exceptional care. By participating in AIR’s studies, patients not only receive top-tier medical care but also play a crucial role in helping to develop new treatments for various conditions.