I thought I was a freak or something...

[Julie_Anne]

Hello. I'm Julie and I'm 19. I'm in college and pre-engaged to one of the most wonderful and understanding people on the planet. I'm not really sure what to say.

I started having problems with incontinence and urinary pain when I was around 14. I noticed I leaked a lot and it got to be really embarrassing. Being so embarrassed, I kept all of this to myself until I was 17 while trying to find creative ways to hide all of this.

When I told my mom that I was having a lot of pain (especially during my cycle), she took me for my first gyno appointment. I complained about my urinary pain and lower abdominal pain and they tested my urine but insisted there was nothing wrong and sent me home. I complained 7 more times, each time given some antibiotics for a UTI or bladder infection, but by the last time I was fed up. Last week I was referred to a urologist who in 15 minutes (and after a whole bunch of questions and a bit of a pelvic exam) gave me some pamphlets on IC and Elmiron and prescription for Detrol LA.

So I'm a newbie. I haven't even been officially diagnosed (my biopsy is next Friday and I'm scared to death), but this just seems to fit so well. It's kind of a relief knowing what I have, but not so much when I think about how my life might be even with the medicine.

At this point, I'm looking for a friend. Any friend. And I'm looking for anyone who might be willing to pass along some books or other tools to me. As it is, I'm a broke college student and saving as much as I can to see my boy (he's currently living in Dublin, Ireland) for Christmas.

I'm so happy I've found this place though. The few people I've told have been clueless about what IC is. Now I don't have to be clueless myself anymore.

[ICNDonna]

:welcome: to the IC Network. And it's human and natural to be nervous about testing. The Patient Handbook on this site is a great source of information --- and you'll find the diet there, which can really be a great help in getting your bladder pain under control.

Warm hugs,
Donna

[Moad]

Hey julie_anne! welocme. I'm so happy you found this place. I have only been here for a couple months but have been helped SOO much. everyone is so nice and willing to help. there are no stupid questions so dont be affraid ask anything thats on your mind. I have had IC for about 10 years and have learned so much more in just the couple months I've been here. there is alos a section for teens and 20 somethings, I know you must feel like the only one your age dealing with this but you will find there are several actually. so you might check that out. good luck and I hope you find lots of help and tips here.
:welcome:
Melody

[nicole24]

Hi Julie,
I have a similar story to yours. Thought you might like to know you're not alone. I am 25 and was just diagnosed with IC last month by a doctor who didn't give me much information. This sight has been sooo helpful. There are so many people who seem to really care. It's also nice to talk to people who understand what you are going through.
I started having symptoms as a teenager as well, but was too embarrassed to tell anyone. From 19 to22 my symptoms completely went away, so I thought it was maybe all in my head. After numerous misdiagnosises of UTI's, I've finally been diagnosed with IC. It feels good to know what it is and finally have a plan for improvement. Keep a positive attitude!:smile tee

[Denisek34]

Hi, forum! Thank you for your help in the past! I was told that I need a special test to officially be diagnosed with IC. Is this normal? I am new to this condition and was wondering if everyone has the test done where a small camera is inserted internally to look at your insides. I've had many sonograms, but this is what was recommended. Is there an official IC test?

Thank you for your help.

Denisek34

[Julie_Anne]

Hi! I think you posted in the wrong place. But I do know what you're talking about with the camera thing. That's what I'm having done next friday. I was told it was an official IC thing along with a biopsy.

[ettegirb21]

Julie_Anne,
Welcome!! I'm young as well...22 and had this for 6 years. I know how hard it is to be a young woman and not being able to be "normal". So know, you're not alone! I am sending healthy wishes and I hope everything goes well on Friday! ~Brigette

[petrie86]

Julianne,

I'm also young, 21. I started having symtoms like your when I turned 18. I didnt get dxd till I was 20. I went through alot of tramatic problems, I believe that is what caused my ic. Everyone's different. I really your testing goes well, Its scary but also a relief when u finally know what the problem is. the Elmiron should help. It's helped me alot. I saw improvements within 3 months. If u have any questions or just need to talk I'm pretty much always on this site. So feel free to pm me. I'm always looking for new friends!!!

Rachel

[SharonA]

:welcome: to the ICN...Julie and Denisek. I am so glad you found us.

From the way it is being described, I think you are talking about having a procedure called Cystoscopy/Hydrodistention. It is usually done under Anesthesia and is one of the methods used to diagnose IC.

Please spend some time reading the IC Patient Handbook. The link is at the top of this page. Pay special attention to the IC Diet. It has helped many find relief from their symptoms.

[leelee88]

Hello and :welcome:
This site is a great place to learn about IC. I am sure someone has mentioned the Patient Handbook on the top left hand corner it will help out alot and if you have questions, dont be shy ask away. I learned more here on the ICN than at any drs office..lol Good luck and we are here for you if you need anything!:angel:

[ICtears]

Hi Julie_Anne,

First of all welcome. I am also 19 and in college. I was just diagnosed last month and it is a relief to officially have a name for my situation. It makes me so happy that you are so positive about it. I have had the run around with doctors for about a year before I found someone who actually wanted to help me. I've only been a member on this site for a little while but the people on here are so helpful. They have really helped me when I was at my lowest of lows. I hope that you find the same comfort and help here. Oh yeah, also, my boyfriend is several hours away from me (not quite dublin) so I understand that long distance thing as well. Feel free to message me anytime to talk. Hope you have a good day!

April