Interstitial Cystitis

Interstitial cystitis forms part of a spectrum of conditions known as painful bladder syndrome that causes pain, discomfort and pressure to the bladder and urinary tract. In addition, this condition causes the urge to urinate more frequently with less urine in the bladder.

While there is no cure, Dr Mkhize can prescribe medication, nerve stimulation, physical therapy or surgery in extreme cases to treat interstitial cystitis.

Interstitial cystitis symptoms

As someone living with interstitial cystitis, your symptoms may vary from time to time. They can flare up in response to specific triggers, such as sexual intercourse, stress, menstruation, and even exercise.

Symptoms to look out for include:

• Frequent urination in small amounts
• Chronic pelvic pain
• Painful sexual intercourse
• Pain in the perineum (in men)
• Discomfort when the bladder fills

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, contact Dr Mkhize for an appointment to determine the underlying cause and rule out any other conditions.

There is no set examination for diagnosing interstitial cystitis, but should you be experiencing bladder pain and frequent urination, Dr Mkhize will perform tests to rule out any other diagnoses first.