I'm trying to be strong...

[Sevasti]

But, I'm on the verge of giving up...as soon as I start to feel better-Another Flare...I'm completely exhausted both mentally and physically...I feel so alone...Don't get me wrong my family is so supportive and wonderful, I just wish that when my Dad asks me how I feel today, I could honestly say I'm doing good! This condition is affecting every aspect of my life-from my work to my social life...I'm a waitress, so after walking for only 2-3 hours the pain is unbearable & I don't want to meet anyone new or start dating because I feel like I'm just a sick loser...The only time I'm comfortable is when I'm at home in my pajamas (next to the bathroom!) I only wish I was feeling sorry for myself...but the PAIN is all too real...I'm only 30 and have already had my left ovary and fallopian tube taken out and now this...I'm at my wits end...Thanks for letting me vent...

[yvette]

Oh geeez that is rough....I know how you feel....I feel pretty OK at home near the toilet too....

Do you think your job may be adding to your symptoms? Would you think of changing jobs to a perhaps less physical demanding one may help a little....just a thought. I know I couldn't keep up the demands of a job like that (says the girl who works 30-50hrs/week in her cubby).

Hang in there! I know its hard but you know already that its great to have family backing you---alot of the guys and gals here don't have that, and have the added stress of being seen as "lazy" or a "liar".....

((((((((((((((hugs to you))))))))))))))))))) things will get better...just keep picking at what works and what doesn't :)

[Tracey5399]

Hi,

I am really sorry you have to deal with this, so glad you found the boards.
Dealing w/IC can be devestating, I am 35 and single also, i am not sure what type of treatment plan you are starting. I take the Elmiron and luckily for me it is helping, i also follow the IC diet ( well try to ) i am learning also.
You may not have to feel like this "forever" you can get better and learn how to live w/IC.
Like Yvette suggested maybe a less stressfull job on your body.

I really hope you feel better soon, if you ever want to talk, vent whatever please pm anytime, keep us posted.
Tracey :)

[kadi]

Hi there Sevasti,
Just wanted to add another note of "hang in there". I got IC at 35, also single, also have a standing-on-my-feet job (though probably not as physical as yours-I'm a teacher), and it took a while to get the IC under control. I can say though, that it is possible to be very sick and still recover from IC and have good quality of life.

There are a lot of treatments out there-- each one of us seems to have to find our own personal combination of what works... And by far the vast majority of us do find that combination and reclaim our lives!

What have you tried for treatments so far?

Sending an encouraging hug & wishing you better days very soon!

[ICNDonna]

One thing I suggest you try is keeping a detailed diary, recording everything you eat and drink, what time you eat and drink, when you take medications, activities, and symptoms. By relating diet and activities to symptoms, you may discover what's causing your flares. It can be time consuming, but it's temporary and it just might help you in the long run.

Warm hugs,
Donna