PBS is a chronic nonbacterial inflammation of the bladder, causing pain and discomfort. In other words, it is a chronic inflammation of the bladder walls. The cause of this disease is often uncertain. Interstitial cystitis cannot be diagnosed with a simple urinalysis, nor be treated with antibiotics. Even though more prevalent among women, it can be seen in both men and women of all ages. Characteristic symptoms are:
Pain
Urinary urgency
Frequent urination, also during the night (up to 60 times a day)
Urgent need to urinate even shortly after urination
Abdominal pain
Vaginal pain in women
Pain in penis, testicles, scrotum or perinea in men
Pain during sexual intercourse
Burning sensation in bladder
FEELING OF PRESSURE IN THE BLADDER AREA
Interstitial cystitis can manifest itself as spasm-like pain in the bladder area or stinging vaginal pain. Sometimes it can feel like pressure in the bladder. Pain can be continuous or intermittent, spreading to the entire pelvic and lower back area. Complaints can occur for no apparent reason, sometimes after an operation, delivery or a serious bacterial infection of the bladder. Spontaneous flare-ups and states of well-being are characteristics of interstitial cystitis. Many women find that their symptoms intensify during premenstrual days or menopause. Complaints may aggravate in direct proportion to emotional or physical stress. Sexual intercourse during a PBS flare-up can be painful and sometimes even impossible for both men and women.
CAUSE REMAINS UNKNOWN
Despite comprehensive research done on various aspects of PBS (interstitial cystitis), the cause of this syndrome remains unknown. Its cause can be manifold, such as allergic, immunologic or neurovascular reasons, bacterial or viral infections, or even environmental factors. Treatment may vary from person to person, meaning that a different treatment is applied on a case-to-case basis.
