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mst263
05-13-2007, 05:03 PM
I was diagnosed with IC in January after being in pain for 8 years and having many negative UTI cultures. My GYN referred me to an UroGYN who performed a cystoscopy and distention of bladder. These tests confirmed the diagnosis and he prescribed Elmiron, Urocit-K, Elavil and Prelif. I am glad to finally having a diagnosis, but is still a little frustrated. I love water, but drinking it all the time is boring! Also, I thought I will lose weight by following the IC diet, (I do cheat once in a while), but I am gaining weight because I believe the Elavil is increasing my appetite. I still have flares eventhough I am
trying so hard to do the right thing! I had to reduce my work hours because it is exhausting running back and forth to the bathroom all day as if you have diarrhea. Also, when I do sit for more than 30 mins I have to get up SLOWLY because I have pain and/or spasms in my lower abdomen. I am thankful that my UroGYN is sending me to a female Physical Therapist who specializes in Pelvic Floor Dysfunction. Hopefully, she will help me strengthen my pelvic muscles. I need to see the light at the end of the tunnel. :help:

Briza
05-13-2007, 05:24 PM
:welcome:
Sorry for the diagnosis but happy that you are now getting treatment after suffering for so many years!
I make a lot of iced chamomile tea. It seems to be bladder friendly. Also mint tea.
Elavil does seem to make some of us gain weight. What dose are you on? I've never had a problem with weight gain, but I only take 10 mg. Even at that low dose it works great for my frequency, and little for my vulvodynia. Seems with Elavil the side effects increase with the dose.
Glad you found us. You'll get a lot of great info and support here!

mst263
05-13-2007, 05:37 PM
I am on 25 mg of Elavil. I will try chamomile and mint tea. Thank you!

kadi
05-13-2007, 05:52 PM
Hi mst:)
I did experience appetite increases at 20mg of Elavil, you are not alone.
I've found that if I increase my vegetables & eat whole grains it controls it a little better. I also try to have sweets only after dinner because if I start eating them during the day, I want them all day long.
For beverages other than water:
1. Blueberry juice (I dilute it & take a calcium citrate with it because it's high in oxalates)
2. Pear juice (I get Looza brand or Hero brand from a health food or specialty grocery store)
3. Peppermint tea (nothing in it except peppermint)
4. Rooibos tea (I got one with vanilla & cream in it, delicious! I make it weak & dilute with milk & sugar)
5. Cinnamon tea (Mexican tea - just cinnamon sticks boiled)
6. Low acid decaf coffee made in the Toddy Maker (reduces acid even further)-Puroast house blend decaf low acid coffee, toddy maker & toddy maker filters all available in the ICN store linked at the top of the page. I also dilute this coffee with ice, milk & sugar.
7. Pear juice mixed with carrot juice

Welcome to the ICN! It does get easier over time, hang in there....