just an introduction....

[krystle]

So this is my story. (So far.)
at about the age of sixteen I developed this unusual ability to "hold it" for long peroids of time. I'm talking HOURS of holding. it was sick, I realize that now, but at the time I thought it was pretty convenient, especially on road trips, during class, etc.It eventually caught up with me and now I regret putting my bladder through so much trauma.
So fast foward to what's now become the most terrible affliction I've ever had to endure, I'm twenty years old and I deal with pain, urgency, and frequency everday. The the first symtom was painful intercourse, which, I unfortunately dismissed because I had reoccuring uti's within a two year period. So time goes on and I'm prescribed some antibiotics by a gyn but, much to my surprise, the symtoms not only remained, but seemed to eventually become worse. The same gyn (I've seen numerous since january 2005) couldn't explain why, because by that time my urine was coming back negative. Over and over again. (keep in mind at this point I still did'nt know IC even existed).
so fast foward once again I've been to the emergency room 3 times because the pain (better safe than sorry). Still nothing!
(part one of two) Please look out for the remainder of my story within the week, gotta go for now.

[ICNJess]

I just wanted to say welcome! Have you tried the IC diet? I was 16 when IC hit me full force, and got dx'd at the age of 20. If you ever want to chat, PM me. :)

Hugs,
Jess

[Katrina]

:welcome: to the ICN. Sounds like way no fun. Definatly try the diet...you will fin it in the handbook. Looking forward to the rest of your story...feel free to ask me for any help you may need.
My first symptoms were age 13...diagnosis 24. :grouphug:
http://www.ic-network.com/handbook/ this is an essential link for everyone with IC. It is very informative on meds, living with IC, and self help....take a look!!!

http://www.ic-network.com/forum/showthread.php?t=7562 this is thread of pain relief the second page has attachments I believe the last one is the list of pain relief ideas.

http://www.ic-network.com/forum/showthread.php?t=11535 This is nexbie kit from the oldies to the newbies

[traceann]

Hi and :welcome: to the boards! Very nice to meet you, though too bad it's under these sorts of circumstances. You will find a wealth of knowledge here and really great support. It's a great place, don't know what I would have done without it... :bow:

Oh yeah, and I agree with Jess, if you haven't tried the diet, I highly recommend that you do, it can be a great helper!!!

Here's a link directly to the foods list:
http://www.ic-network.com/handbook/diet.html

Once again, welcome!!! Hope to see you around the boards!!! :)

[SandyRN]

Hi,

:welcome: to the board. Have you been diagnosed with IC yet? If you havent had a cysto/hydro done to rule out the IC, I would see if one of the doctor's (a Uro) will do this procedure for you. It will let you know one way or another if you have it or not.

It also can be theraputic and help relieve some of the symptoms you describe.

Let us know how things are for you.

Sandy

[Sarojini]

Just another :welcome: to the boards. :) I hope you've been diagnosed and have begun a regimen that is beginning to help your symptoms.

The others are right; the Patient Handbook is a great read and includes the diet... if you don't know about the diet, I suggest trying it-- it's been a lifesaver for many of us.