Learn About Interstitial Cysticis (IC)/BPS
What is IC/BPS?
IC/BPS is a chronic disease and current epidemiology data shows that IC/BPS may be more prevalent than previously thought. In 2011–2012 The Rand Corporation screened over 100,000 households and estimated that 3.3 million to 7.0 million women in the US over 18 years of age suffer from IC/BPS. In a parallel study by Rand (RICE study), 6,000 households were screened and an estimated 1.2 million to 3.0 million men in the US also suffer from IC/BPS.
What causes IC/BPS?
IC/BPS is caused by an anatomical defect in the bladder lining (GAG layer) exposing nerve endings to the urine stored in the bladder.
What are the hallmark symptoms of IC/BPS?
- Bladder pain experienced in lower abdominal/pelvis, but also urethra or vagina, etc.
- Can be severe, chronic and/or acute
- Acute pain episodes and pain flares can be associated with menstrual cycles, dyspareunia, and allergies
- Urinary urgency and frequency
- In men, additional symptoms may include testicular, scrotal and/or perineal pain, and painful ejaculation
Resources
- Interstitial Cystitis Foundation — http://www.ichelp.org
- International Pelvic Pain Society — http://www.pelvicpain.org
- International Painful Bladder Foundation — http://www.painful-bladder.org
- Cystitis & Overactive Bladder Foundation — http://www.cobfoundation.org/
- National Association for Incontinence — http://www.nafc.org
- National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse — http://kidney.niddk.nih.gov
- The Simon Foundation — http://www.simonfoundation.org