what is a cystoscopy?

[Rebeccanne]

well, it looks like I have IC. Its not for certain... I have to go see two more doctors... but two have already said it look like i might have it.

a couple questions... what is a cystoscopy? I have noticed a lot of you mention it, and I am wondering exactly what it is? If I am for sure diagnosed, will I have to have one? Can someone explain to me what it is?

Also the past couple days i have had EXCRUCIATING pain in my side. Its on the left side and right by my hip bone. It got so bad one day that I was in tears, and couldn't barely move. So my husband took me to the hospital. They did some tests, and couldn't figure out what it is. They think it might be a ovarian cyst... if its not, could it have something to do with IC? It is in ONE spot, and i can pin point exactly where it is. Its really sharp, and almost crampy.

Anyways, if anyone can answer any of my questions I would appreciate it. Thanks

[ICNDonna]

You'll find an explanation in the Patient Handbook at http://www.ic-network.com/handbook

Donna

[Katrina]

I had an few in office cystoscopies...that is not a diagnostic tool for IC but it is often done. It is not very painful...just mainly uncomfortable for most of us. For some it might hurt but not most. In this procedure in the doctors office a catherder is inserted into the urethra and to your bladder ....and the doctor looks inside.

A hydrodistention cystoscopy is one of the normal diagnostic tools for IC...many doctors do use it. In this procedure which is surgical at the hospital under anethsia the same thing is done only your bladder is stretched and this is often the only way inflammation can be seen.

You may not have to have either. I was diagnosed by Potassium test....that isn't fun either.

[ScottR]

Katrina: How is a potassium test performed ?

ScottR