One more question

[CHRIS31]

thank you everyone for your replys. I just had one more question. My doctor did say I could try a medication, but since my symptoms didn't bother me extremely most days it would be ok to not take it for now. but I didn't ask him, will IC get worse with out treatment? Does taking medication really help the bladder lining?

[liznazz]

I can only speak for my experience--I've been diagnosed with IC for a little over a year now. When I first had it, I would wake up everyday dreading what was to come. My bladder hurt, my urethra throbbed and every time I peed it felt like I had to go again. I started taking elmiron, atarax and celebrex (Plus some natural supplements I added and did some research on). After about 7-8 months, I started feeling better, and as of now there are days where I actually feel "normal" as long as I follow the IC diet and take my meds. If I go off the diet I do flare, but I would say I have had a 90% improvement on this program. liz

[ICNDonna]

You shouldn't actually make your IC worsen by not taking meds, but your comfort level could be improved by taking them. If it's elmiron you're considering, you need to remind yourself that it can take up to six months or more for it to become effective --- so getting started down that road could be a good step for you.

Donna