What does a flare look like for you...?

[Alex1981]

Based on what I have read on this board I would describe my IC as very mild. I would like to know what symptoms other men on here experience when they are having a flare.

For me the only thing that really gives me a flare is carbonated beverages. When I drink soda or some iced coffee drink I notice my frequency goes up big time and I have a discomfort when I urinate and have a weaker stream. Alcohol and tomatoes don't bother me at all.

[mom_in_ma]

When I have a flare my frequency goes way up and I have a burning feeling in my bladder. My stream is weaker as well and I have a lot of pressure in my pelvic region. My muscles in that area tend to tense up as well.

[.........*sigh*]

I get increace in frequency, pressure in pubic area and a general tightness feeling there too.

[ICB]

Have you tried Prelief prior to drinking the beverages that increase your IC symptoms? If that doesn't help, you may want to ask your healthcare provider about Urocit-K; this medication is used to make the urine less acidic.

The flares that you are experiencing may be caused by inflammation. A great source for information on application of ice and heat is www.roadtoslainte.blogspot.com. The blogspot is written by an excellent physical therapist that specializes in PFD/Pelvic Pain.

Some of my favorite articles that you may find helpful are:

1. Dear Diary
2. nICE & HOT
3. The Elephant in the Refrigerator
4. That's so . . . . . Stimulating
5. Let's Go! Really Go!
6. Bladder Boot Camp
7. To Kegel or Not to Kegel

My physical therapist recommends that I apply large ice packs to the bladder area and the tailbone area for 20 minutes. This helps to calm down the nerve endings in my bladder and the sacral nerves that lead to the bladder. I also use an e-stim unit (similar to a TENS unit) while applying the ice; this truly helps my frequency. You may want to discuss this with your healthcare provider and take him/her the articles from the blogspot; together you can make a comprehensive decision on what may work best for you.

I suggest that you consult with your healthcare provider if you believe that the information above may be helpful; your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate treatment regimen for you.

Only your healthcare provider can determine if the above suggestions are appropriate treatment options for you; these are just some suggestions that you can discuss with him/her.

The contents in this post are provided for informational purposes only. The contents are not intended in any way to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition.

Best wishes, ICB