Finally, I have been diagnosed....

[LaurenEngland]

So after two and a half years of bad pain flare ups I visited the hospital this morning to receive news about my latest cystoscopy I had (December).

I have been diagnosed with Urethral Syndrome and will be prescribed Elmiron if my symptoms persist.

I'm not sure whether I feel relieved that it's nothing life-threatenning or upset that i've to deal with these symptoms for the rest of my life (i'm only 23).

However, in January I made the New Year's resolution to alter my diet and have done so drastically. I now follow the IC diet which has helped a great deal. I'm 80% better than I was.

However, I am still a little bit worried about how I will feel in the future and if the pain will gradually get worse.

I have found that the IC diet and support forum has really helped me come to terms with things so I will remain on here.

I'd just like to say thanks to everyone on here - lots of you have given me some really great advice, particularly Donna who told me the Uva Ursi I was taking daily might actually be causing flares. Since coming off it I have noticed an improvement.

thanks again to everyone and best of luck to you all. I know how it feels to be in pain every day. Luckily my friends and family are very supportive but my heart goes out to those of you who do not have it so easy.

Good luck to everyone. xxx

[karen10]

So glad to hear that you have some resolution, although I certainly understand there's mixed feelings hearing you have a condition that you have to learn to live with and manage! But I want to encourage you that it is very manageable! You already see how much difference the diet and even wrong supplements can really affect how you feel! I was the same way. I also got lots of help from the Desert Harvest aloe. Within a week, my feeling of urgency was gone. My pain is directly correlated to what I eat. You definitely have to experiment with what works for you.

The current research and my doctor says that most IC doesn't progress, especially if you're taking care of your bladder!

Keep posting on what works for you! :)

[SharonA]

It's so good that you have some answers. I am also glad that the Diet is helping and that you are feeling so much better. :)

[kuntrygurl78]

Im so glad you are feeling better!:bow:

[LaurenEngland]

thanks to everyone who's replied to this thread.
I really appreciate your kindness.
Has anyone found that IC/Urethral syndrome symptoms worsen with age? I hope not...
:angel:

[karen10]

Not according to the research. Hopefully you'll hear from ICNDonna. She's been dealing with it for years and I read on one of her posts that it has gotten easier to manage over time. I'm sure hoping it doesn't get worse! I've also heard that after menopause it can get better for some. :)

[LaurenEngland]

for those of you who're on Elmiron....

have you found that it works? reduces pain significantly etc? and what about the side effects?

i'm worried about taking it:confused:

[lisabar36]

Hi, I am glad you finally got a diagnosis, although I know at the same time it is hard. But I am glad to hear the diet is helping you and you are feeling better. I started Elmiron in September, I did not have any side effects and I would say it has helped me along with my other meds, Elmiron can take time to work, they told me 3 to 6 months to start seeing improvement. I am still on it it. As you know, we all tolerate meds differently, but I do hope it works good for you. :) Lisa