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Deb65
05-06-2005, 05:00 AM
I don't talk to people about my problem but today is a very bad day both physically and mentally. I am sitting here crying as I type hoping this will give me relief. I was diagnosed with IC about 4yrs ago but have had it for at least 15yrs. My doctors kept telling me it was in my head or treating me for constant infections. I finally ended up in a walk- in-clinic near where I worked. I was absolutely desperate and in pain so bad I could barely walk. They did a standard test for bladder infection - which came back negative. This doctor then began asking questions and really listening to what I had to say. I told him of all the years living in the bathroom, the constant pain and thirst. I told him how my kids tell all their friends I work for the FBI (federal bathroom inspectors). That kind of hurt. The doctor referred me to a specialist - Urologist. Finally, after all these years I had a name for my - all in my head problem, IC. What a relief to know I wasn't going crazy. Everything is real. The doctor showed me the pictures of inside my bladder. It looked like this little deep red ball. I asked what was wrong with it. He showed me a healthy bladder - answered my question. So, now here I am years later still in pain and working for the FBI (federal bathroom inspectors). I have since found out I am medication intollerant and suffer from pain depression. I have tried just about everything with no relief. I was scheduled for the Interstim to be inplanted but last minute it was cancelled due to hospital, doctor,insurance and interstim negotiating problems. I am now seeing an Osteopathic Doctor. He has given me the most relief. I am hoping that as time goes on I will have greater relief. Thanks for listening.

SharonA
05-06-2005, 05:21 AM
Hello Deb and :welcome: to the ICN...

First...the Interstim is not for pain. It is only for urgency/frequency. Some here report that they have a reduction in their pain level, but it is rare.

No, IC is not in your head...it is in your bladder. :) I hope that someday all doctors will be taught in medical school that this is a real disease. Until then, it is up to us, as patients, to do the educating.

Have you looked into the IC Diet available here? You can find it at: www.ic-network.com/handbook (http://) Just click on the Diet Section. Finding the foods and/or drinks that can be triggers for you is very important. Your diet can be your first defence against flares and pain.

I am so glad you found us. :) :) :)