We, in the IC/BPS community, know the dangers of artificial, non-sugar sweeteners. Nutrasweet (aka aspartame) is a well known bladder irritant that can trigger agonizing pain. A growing number of studies have found significant and potentially life threatening dangers, so much so that the World Health Organization’s cancer agency is considering listing aspartame as [...]
We were recently contacted by an IC/BPS patient whose urine contained bright, red blood. She had been bleeding several days a week for months yet an examination of her bladder found perfectly normal tissue. Obviously, the blood had to have been coming from somewhere, most likely her kidneys, but this brings up an important [...]
With a new school year approaching, children and teens with IC/BPS might be anxious and uncertain. Will they be given restroom access? Will they have teachers who support them? Will they make new friends and fit in? Will the bus ride be comfortable? Your goal as a parent is to nurture and inspire them. [...]
Researchers at the Emory Eye Center (Atlanta, GA) studying retinal eye disease have made another remarkable finding, that some IC/BPS patients using pentosan polysulfate (PPS, Elmiron®) are struggling with inflammatory bowel disease, some so severe that colectomy (removal of a section of the colon) was required.(1) Elmiron® is the only FDA approved medication for [...]
The Agony of Cranberry For anyone struggling with urinary symptoms (frequency, urgency, pressure and/or pain), the first suggestion they often hear from well meaning family members and friends is to drink cranberry juice. And, perhaps for a patient struggling with recurring UTI's, cranberry may have some benefit (more on that later) but for the IC/BPS, Hunner's lesion or [...]
In the IC Diet Guidelines, fresh, organic meats are always recommended over preserved meats such as salami or bologna. Why? Because preserved meats usually contain a variety of chemicals and additives, such as sodium nitrite, that could irritate the bladder. But, what about bacon? Is "uncured" vs. "cured" bacon more IC friendly? It can [...]
This study in women, ages 18-65, will require you to receive three doses of study drug into your bladder, and one intravenous dose of an approved drug, over about 1 1⁄2 months. The study requires 26 days and nights in the Research Unit. You will have urine collections and a total of about 78 blood [...]
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When you struggle with pelvic pain, it's a lot easier to stay at home. Driving is a notorious trigger for bladder and pelvic pain. From a bumpy ride to hard seats, finding the right car takes time and effort. This article contains tips that I hope will help ease your car rides and bring [...]
