Hi- I'm new Uro thinks I have IC

[Trishie]

Hello:
I have had cystoscopy/hydrodistention last Nov. Didn't have any pinpoint bleeds etc., but have all the other symptoms. Been on strace vag. creme, and ditropan xl 15 mg for a 1 1/2. It has helped a little. But I am not normal.
Does anyone else wet their pants? Can't believe I just asked that. I have worn pads for four yrs. Ugh!!!!
I have had problems for 4 yrs.
My uro referred me to another Uro who specilizes in IC. They both think I have IC (I am in denial). This Uro is going to do a cystoscopy/hydrodistention because he wants to see before he puts me on meds. What do you people think?
:rolleyes:

[Sarojini]

:welcome: to the ICN! I'm sorry you're dealing with these symptoms right now. You may or may not have IC but I think it's a good idea to see the IC specialist at this point; he can rule things out and can help you arrive at an official diagnosis. Then, you can get started on some treatments and start feeling better!! :)

In the meantime, you may want to check out our Patient Handbook at http://www.ic-network.com/handbook -- it has tons of info on diagnosis and treatment options, as well as many self-help tips including the IC Diet. If you haven't already, I suggest trying this diet out. You need to avoid acidic things (citrus fruits, tomatoes, etc) and caffeinated/carbonated things (sodas, teas, coffee) at the very least. This type of diet helps many, many IC patients feel better.

Also, keep in mind that there is a subset of IC patients who do not have pinpoint bleeding, but still have all of the symptoms of IC--and these patients are helped by IC medications and treatments-- so if you still don't show any bleeding you might want to mention this to your doc.

[ICNDonna]

I don't have anything to add to Jen's advice, but did want to say :welcome: to the IC Network.

Warm healing thoughts,
Donna

[vm]

I think that is great that your uro is referring you to someone with more experience with IC. I hope the new one is helpful.

Don't give up hope! Your medications haven't even touched the tip of the iceberg in terms of what is available to us. Most people with IC go on to find treatments that help them live fairly normally.

update us on the new uro, OK? :)

[JudyS]

I too want to say hi :hi: and add that maybe you don't have pinpoints 'cuz you're being diagnosed earlier than some of were....Docs are more informed these days about IC and are starting to find and treat it before the damage to the bladder wall gets too bad. :woohoo: That being said, there are still many out there who think our symptoms are all in our head :loco: because that's what they were taught in medical school....that's why it's important to learn everything you can about IC and be proactive as a patient.

I think your uro is wise to send you to a specialist....at least he's acknowledging that your pain is real. :)

I too suffer from leakage and have since my first son was born in 1984....my bladder was severely prolapsed after my symphysis separated and my uterus (with my 8lb son) dropped down....My ob/gyn did a hysterectomy in 2000 and resuspended my bladder at that time, but I sill have leakage.

[Dixiefireball]

:hi: and :welcome: to the icn family

[gwynnie]

hi and welcome... this is the best place to be.. with all the wonderful people here...

[Iris]

Hi and welcome to the IC family, the gals have given you good advice in their posts. Glad you are going to have the cysto/hydro and find out what is going on. I know personally that some days, I do have leakage, I think for me that is just part of my IC. We all vary so much in our symptoms and treatments. Hope you will let us know how you are doing, welcoming hug Iris. :hi: :grouphug: :flower:

[Katrina]

:hi: :welcome: Welcome to the ICN!!!!
I am sorry you are having a ruff time but I am very happy you found us. I hope you get the relief you need.

http://www.ic-network.com/forum/showthread.php?t=7562 this link is a pain managment post. The second page has 4 attachments...the last one is a list of ideas for IC pain.....take a look if pain is problem for you.

[~*~Christine~*~]

Hi, welcome :hi:
In terms of the wet undies, if you're talking about discharge from the vaginal area than I get that too when I'm in a flare, but if you're talking about bladder-leakage than I have not experienced that.