Military and IC

[kahnsmiles82]

I have been in the Military for 9 years now. I found out that I had IC last month. I am afraid that I will be kicked out of the Military. Has anyone been through this or know anything about it? Thank you.

[ICNDonna]

We have in the past had some in the military who have IC. Hopefully, with medications and some diet changes, you will do well.

Warm healing thoughts headed your way,
Donna

[Snowden1]

My husband is in the military and we were both in the military when we met. I think it depends on the severity of your symptoms and if you can continue to do your job efficiently. Imagine being in Iraq or another country and not having access to good health care? In addition, the stress the equipment puts on your body - weapon, gas mask, etc. If you have mild symptoms you may be o.k., but the military wants you to always be ready to deploy.
I wish you the best - Thank you for your service!
Teresa

[statesboro]

I was in the Navy for 4 years. Of course, I did not have IC at all. If I had gotten it back then, then I would not have minded leaving. It could have been a good thing. Besides, you can't always get to a restroom real easily. You may not sleep near one, but you may have to get up.(and not sleep good enough) It would be hard to be fighting in Iraq with IC. At least, I would figure. You may be doing ok for all I know. I don't know who diagnosed you.(whether military doctor or not) Have you been giving an option so far? IC is considered to be a disability. Oh, well!

[Snowden1]

IC is considered a disability and you would be eligible for disability - especially if you have received the diagnosis from a military doctor.
Teresa

[carried_cub]

Having discussed my situation w/an active duty colonel in the surgeon general's office of the staff I work on (as a civilian), he told me if I were active duty I would be considered nondeployable. Now, I'm sure this will vary for every patient, service branch etc. but it's something to keep in mind that on top of working to get the best care you can in the military system you may at some point have to deal with your equivalent of the med board process.

I hope, very much, that your symptoms will get and stay under plenty of control so you can enjoy your chosen career, and thank you for your service.