What Causes IC?

New research shows that many more people are affected by Interstitial Cystitis than was originally thought. Is the rising number of reported cases due to an actual increase in the occurrence of IC? Maybe it is simply the result of increased awareness of this condition, and the medical community's improving ability to diagnose the problem. With the increase in the number of patients, it is only natural that the demand for a cure has become greater. In order to find this cure, it seems logical that we must first determine the cause.

What causes IC? The answer to this question could lead to a cure. Bacteria has long been a popular theory, and it's easy to see why. In most cases, no bacteria are present in the urine. However, many patients constantly have at least one symptom mimicking a bacterial infection. Could an unusual form of bacteria be at the root of the problem? Perhaps modern lab tests are still unable to detect it. Many patients, including myself, had severe bladder infections before the onset of IC. Some report having had chronic bladder infections beginning in childhood. These reports make the connection between bacteria and IC seem plausible.

Some researchers still believe that bacteria may play a part in IC, while others have dismissed the idea. The fact that IC cases differ so widely, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe, has lead to the belief that it is not caused by just one thing. It may indeed be a number of factors that contribute to this condition. Previous bladder and/or urinary tract infections, genetics, environment, and diet are all possibilities. Any or all of them could play a role in the development of IC.

Is IC progressive? This is a question that is commonly asked. My research found conflicting answers. Some sources say that symptoms rapidly reach their worst state, with little or no worsening in the years that follow. Newer reports seem to contradict, saying that up to half of patients see progression, sometimes to the point of severe disability. It is definitely life altering, but I found no indication that IC is life threatening. Research has shown no connection between Interstitial Cystitis and bladder cancer.

Research is ongoing, and has so far resulted in several effective treatments. In the next several years, it is likely that more techniques, therapies, and drugs will be developed to help sufferers deal with their condition. There is hope that continued research will lead to a cure.

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