September was IC Awareness Month! Please take a moment to learn about IC. 👇
Interstitial Cystitis, also referred to as Bladder Pain Syndrome, is a chronic and painful condition of the bladder. It causes pelvic pain, urinary frequency and urgency. It’s like living with a severe UTI 24/7, but without an infection present. There is no known cause and no cure, though some treatments can help relieve some symptoms. (I think it’s important to note here that most treatments are financially inaccessible to most here in the US.) People with IC can need to use the restroom up to 60 times a day. It’s often explained as the feeling of knives stabbing into the abdomen when needing to go. Research shows that the quality of life for patients with IC is comparable to that of a cancer or kidney dialysis patient. Symptoms and severity can vary among patients which makes the diagnosis and treatment process tough. It takes most patients years to get a diagnosis. IC is still mysterious and not very well known, even among many doctors- In fact old myths of the condition are still believed by many medical professionals which prevent many from getting the diagnosis and treatment they deserve. (These myths include “only old people get IC” or “only women have this disease.” Both are FALSE!) Interstitial Cystitis is very misunderstood and IC patients face ableism and insensitivity from both the general public and their doctors, keeping them from the care and compassion they deserve. IC needs more research and awareness so those with IC can be met with the seriousness this debilitating condition requires. If you'd like to help, please consider donating to the Interstitial Cystitis Association, an org dedicated to research and advocacy.
