Finally Diagnosed

[KatyG]

Hi. My name is Katy and I live in Virginia. I've done a lot of research over the last 30 years and was pretty sure I had IC but never had an official diagnosis. I went through the same thing with endometriosis in the early 70's and because of delayed diagnosis was unable to have children. (Yes, I'm up there in age, ha, ha!). I've worked all my life, single most of the time and have somehow managed a type of bio-feedback to deal with the pain. After breast cancer, chemo and radiation I left IC diagnosis on the back burner but watched what I ate. Fortunately I came across this site and decided to see a uro in my area who has an excellent rep. Well, he said I probably had IC just from my symptoms and I didn't tell him I already suspected that (I was "testing" him). My gyn had run bladder tests, but never mentioned IC. Anyway, after the Parson's test, it was obvious I had, as he called it, a "classic textbook case." He was amazed that I knew so much about the procedures, as well as the diet and meds. I just started Elmiron yesterday. I bought the Prelief about two weeks ago and that has helped a lot. I've learned to live with the pain, but how nice it would be to approach my 60th year with less pain. How wonderful that would be! I read your notes each day and wish the best for all of you. You're like a family. I do a lot of research and my doctor is on top of all new developments so I will contribute and pass along anything I find out. Thanks for listening to my story.

[aantol73]

Kate,
First off, welcome to our little family, so glad you found us :woohoo: .
It sounds like you have been through some very difficult illness' so I am so sorry to hear that now you have IC, but there is still hope for a pain free life. It sounds like you are already on top of your diet and doing all you can but if pain plagues you do not be afraid to ask for pain meds for those really bad days.....
I wish you all the best and I am here if you need a friend :) :angel:

[crystilclear]

I'm so sorry you've been through so much. I hope that you will find treatments that will work asap. I know that a lot of us have learned to deal with a lot of pain but by all means ask for some pain relief if you need it. It sounds like you've been through so much and deserve to have some better days ahead. If your doctor doesn't work out I see a great doctor in Virginia too. I am over in WV and drive about an hour and a half to see her. It is worth it though. The patient handbook had lots of info and Katrina compiled a list of pain treatments that are helpful. Take care and :welcome: to the ICN. - Chris

[sleepyangel30]

Hi Katy welcome to the family. I'm so glad you joined.

[ICNDonna]

I'd just like to add another :welcome: to the IC Network. I'm sorry that you have IC, but it does sound like you have a very healthy attitude about it.

Sending warm hugs from another senior citizen!

:)
Donna

[Iris]

Hi Katy and welcome to the ICN, does sound like you have been through a lot, but glad you have found us. Plenty of information and support here, and sounds like you are dealing very well with your IC, which is wonderful. Once again welcome, and I second Donna's post, another senior citizen here, welcoming hug Iris. :hi: :welcome: :flower:

[tillysav]

:welcome:

Sorry you have IC, but glad you found the IC Network. A wealth of information and lots of support from the people here. It may take time for Elmiron to work, but it can make a big difference! Hope you start feeling better soon. :grouphug:

[vm]

Welcome, Katy!!!!! :welcome:

[KatyG]

Thanks to all of you for the warm welcomes. I've been on Elmiron for 3 days so far. Hopefully I won't have any bad side effects. I know it can takes months to work. It's been raining heavily here in eastern Virginia for over a week now so it's nice to come to the computer and talk so I don't get too bored. I have tons of veggies to pick but the ground is so soggy. I'm going to have to trudge out there though. The tomatoes are weighted from the water and the beans are getting too large. Since there are only two of ous, we've been giving away tons but it's so nice to have fresh vegetable for months. Yum! Of course I have to take my Prelief before eating the tomatoes and homemade tomato sauce. Katy

[Katrina]

Sorry you have IC and had to go such a long time without a diagnosis. I have done the same thing as you with some diseases...knowing I have them but not conving a doctor untill years later....I have Endo too. Anyway :welcome::welcome: to our family. So glad you found us. If I can help you with anything let me know.

:smile fai Glad u r with us!

[ICLori]

Welcome! I'm sorry you have suffered the pain all alone so many years, but it sounds like you have been very strong and have developed some coping mechanisms that have allowed you to survive this.

I read one doctor refers to IC as the "Evil twin" of endometriosis, there is a high correlation between the two.

I hope that the Elmiron will begin working soon for you and that you will be comfortable very soon.

Blessings, Lori

[Sarojini]

:welcome: to the boards, Kate :)

Glad you found us! I'm also glad you found a good uro... they are often hard to come by! I hpe your meds start helping really soon!