Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a chronic bladder condition resulting in recurring discomfort or pain in the bladder or surrounding pelvic region. People with IC usually have inflamed or irritated bladder walls that can cause scarring and stiffening of the bladder. IC can affect anyone; however, it is more common in women than men. Some people have some or none of the following symptoms:
- Abdominal or pelvic mild discomfort
- Frequent urination
- A feeling of urgency to urinate
- Feeling of abdominal or pelvic pressure
- Tenderness
- Intense pain in the bladder or pelvic region
- Severe lower abdominal pain that intensifies as the urinary bladder fills or empties
Contact your primary health care physician to get a referral to see a specialist at HMC if you are experiencing any or all of the mentioned symptoms.
