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Interstitial cystitis

Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a chronic neuro-inflammatory disorder that affects the bladder, urinary tract, and immune system which can cause bladder pain and pressure and sometimes pelvic pain. IC most commonly occurs in women. This condition shares many of the same symptoms with other pelvic or urinary conditions, such as urinary incontinence or bladder infections.

Symptoms of Interstitial Cystitis Include:

The signs and symptoms of interstitial cystitis vary from person to person and that makes it difficult to diagnose. If you have interstitial cystitis, your symptoms may also vary over time, periodically flaring in response to common triggers, such as menstruation, sitting for a long time, stress, exercise, and sexual activity. IC symptoms may include:

  • Pain in your pelvis or between the vagina and anus in women
  • Pain between the scrotum and anus (perineum) in men
  • Chronic pelvic pain
  • A persistent, urgent need to urinate
  • Frequent urination, often of small amounts, throughout the day and night (up to 60 times a day)
  • Pain or discomfort while the bladder fills and relief after urinating
  • Pain during sex
Diagnosis and treatment of IC?

SouthWest Urology specialists will carefully review your medical history and do a thorough physical examination. Cystoscopy and urodynamic evaluations can also help our professionals diagnose interstitial cystitis.

We have many options for the treatment of IC:

  • Medications
  • Bladder Instillations
  • Lifestyle modifications
  • Neuromodulation
  • Bladder Ulcer Cauterization
  • Botox Injections
  • Surgery

Why Choose Us?

  • Nine highly trained, collaborative urological specialists all taking new patients
  • Three locations across the northern Ohio region
  • Consultation appointments scheduled within 5-7 days of referral
  • One-stop office for a wide range of urological conditions for both males and females
  • In-office lab testing and imaging
  • In-office medication dispensary
  • Comprehensive cancer care including kidney, ureter, bladder, prostate, and testicular cancers
  • Clinical navigation for BPH, Overactive Bladder and Prostate Cancer
  • Clinical Trials
  • We accept most insurance plans including Medicare, Medicaid, and VA