[livingwith]

My family doctor just diagnosed me with IC after ending up in the E.R. in so much pain I couldn’t stand, sit or walk. They gave me a pain shot which made the IC worse…a common problem, a mistake doctors make with IC I have had pain in my bladder for years…it is worse if I try to drink caffeine (I gave it up 6 years ago because of the intense pain) but most often pain during & after sex; and lots of UTI symptoms but no infections in the testing shown.
I am seeing a urologi...Read the full article

[alicia222777]

I know what you mean. I have had this ( constant UTI"S) for three years but was just diagnosed 6 months ago, I have been on pain killers for almost a year now.....I wish I had some miracle advice to give you, but I dont. I think IC is not understood yet in the medical world, that is why there aren't any new foundings for relief. I found that staying away from Spicy Foods, Caffeine, Alcohol, Chocolate, Spices, Tomatoes, anything acidic can really help....Soda ( especially Diet), anything with artificial Sweetners, and so much more I'm finding out. I take pre-lief, and am now in the market for Aloe Gel Caps. I am now keeping a daily journal of what I eat, and what makes me flare up. I have had DMSO injections ( OWWWW! didnt work) and just recently I had a hydrodilation of the bladder ( didnt work) and a laparoscopy from my OB/GYN, and she found endometreosis, I dont know what was worse...recovering from the 3 open wounds left in my belly or having to deal with the pain of IC. I feel for you, and if I come up with anything else. I will let you know. PLEASE people do the same for us! Thanks, Alicia

[Glitter Girl]

I am sorry to hear of your pain. Have you tried taking Phenazopyridine, AKA Pyridium? It numbs the bladder and turns your urine orange (which can stain) but it can really help. I take it as needed but try to only take it when it's really bad. I don't think it has side effects but I like to keep a handle on knowing how often I am in pain, etc, so that's why I only take when it's really bad.

Pyridium is available by prescription only but the doctors that I have seen have no problem prescribing it for me as an on-going, as needed, drug. Since they can't figure out what's wrong with me. I have not been diagnosed with IC but have been told it's a possibility.

My symptoms are chronic burning, and UTI's that show up and then symptoms of UTI's but negative test results. Best of luck to you!