Interstitial Cystitis

While the jury is still out on the exact cause of interstitial cystitis, there are many schools of thought on what causes it. Here we will go over a few of the possible reasons for interstitial cystitis.

Allergies

Some people are able to get relief from the symptoms of IC by treating allergies. Some studies show that as many as 40% of people of those with IC can have food allergies.

The most common culprits can be caffeine and other stimulants. Some studies suggest that anything that causes an excess of acid production, like spicy foods, can also increase symptoms.

Non food allergies have also been linked to IC. As many as a third of patients with IC also have environmental allergies. Many times being treated for these types of allergies can decrease the painful symptoms.

Immune Disease

There have been strong links to other immune diseases and IC. It’s more common to see IC in patients who already have fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome, and Crohns disease. It’s typical to see inflammation in various areas with an immune disease. Some researchers believe that IC is worsened by inflammation of the bladder or surrounding pelvic area. By treating the inflammation associated some people will experience relief. Many people will also experience relief by seeking common treatments for immune disorders.

Heredity

Research is still being conducted on the heredity link. Some research does point to heredity though. There have been reports of siblings who both suffer from IC, and a few parent/children combos. It’s important to know that this is still being researched.

Antiproliferative Factor

Also called APF, this substance is found in the urine of patients with IC. Research is still being conducted, but this substance doesn’t appear to be in the urine of patients without IC.  Some research suggests that this substance causes cells to multiply abnormally, much like cell proliferation in some cancers. While IC does not appear to affect people in the same way as cancer would, thickening of the bladder and surround areas is believed to cause pain and the other symptoms associated with IC.

Diet

One of the leading fields of belief is that diet plays an important factor in IC. People who live sedentary lifestyles, don’t eat well, and consume large amounts of caffeine appear to be more likely to develop symptoms associated with IC. The link between IC and diet and lifestyle has to be proven, but the research is strong.

Research

There is still a lot of research to be done before a definitive cause can be found. The more research that is conducted, the closer we get to a cure. There are several research institutions devoted solely to the research of IC. There are also support groups all over the nation to help you deal with the symptoms should you be diagnosed.

For now we know a few things that lessen the symptoms. Consult your doctor for information regarding allergy testing, immune treatments, and changes in your diet and lifestyle.