{"id":9486,"date":"2019-08-18T15:00:51","date_gmt":"2019-08-18T15:00:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/simplyhealth.io\/?p=9486"},"modified":"2022-02-07T09:35:16","modified_gmt":"2022-02-07T09:35:16","slug":"16-common-causes-of-interstitial-cystitis","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/simplyhealth.io\/16-common-causes-of-interstitial-cystitis\/","title":{"rendered":"16 Common Causes of Interstitial Cystitis"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Cystitis is the official medical term used by doctors to describe any inflammation of your bladder. A specific variety that\u2019s known as interstitial cystitis is chronic rather than acute meaning that it affects the patient over a long period of time. It could lead to pain in both the pelvic and bladder. It will also lead to abnormally high-pressure levels within your bladder.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The amount of pain that one patient will experience due to interstitial cystitis can vary from minor pain to excruciating levels that are unbearable without the aid of medications. Interstitial cystitis is a condition part of the \u201cpainful bladder syndrome\u201d group of diseases.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This spectrum encompasses various conditions, but interstitial cystitis is arguably the most common one of the lot. Of course, you might be wondering what even causes it, and that\u2019s what we\u2019re here to teach you about today. Here are eight common causes of interstitial cystitis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Fibromyalgia<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Fibromyalgia <\/a>is a condition that causes musculoskeletal pain. There are many things that can cause this condition. For instance, it may be the result of an infection. Surgery and physical trauma are other common triggers for the disease. Doctors believe that the condition makes the brain more receptive to pain, thus causing the disability that patients feel on a daily basis. Studies have shown that fibromyalgia may actually cause interstitial cystitis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Both interstitial cystitis and fibromyalgia typically develop in a group of three that including chronic fatigue syndrome. It is unclear why they occur in this triad, though there are multiple ongoing studies that aim to answer just that. If you have fibromyalgia then maintaining your bladder health would be wise to prevent the development of interstitial cystitis. After all, while the exact link and cause are yet to be established, it\u2019s better to be safe now than sorry later on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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2. IBS<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Irritable bowel syndrome<\/a> is a disorder of the large intestine that is often shortened to IBS. While it may sound like there\u2019s a comedic aspect to this condition based on the name, it can actually be a chronic nuisance to the patients that it affects. It\u2019s worth noting that most people with irritable bowel syndrome will actually be asymptomatic or only experience minor symptoms provided that they maintain a good dietary lifestyle and get enough exercise on a regular basis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

That being said, those who do develop symptoms often find it difficult to live a normal life without constant treatment. A third of all patients with interstitial cystitis also suffer from irritable bowel syndrome. This is what led scientists to initially suspect that a link between the two conditions may be present. Studies show that IBS can lead to an overactive bladder which is likely what causes interstitial cystitis in these cases.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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3. Drug-induced cystitis<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

It may be surprising to hear, but cystitis can actually occur as a result of various medications. One such group of medicines is chemo drugs. These drugs are designed to kill the cancer cells within your body, but they can also have other adverse effects on your health. That\u2019s why doctors are working so hard on finding another treatment option for cancer that doesn\u2019t pose as many risks as chemotherapy<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Two drugs specifically known as ifosfamide and cyclophosphamide have been known to lead to the inflammation of the bladder. Doctors also state that various other chemo drugs can cause cystitis. After you ingest the drugs, they make their way out through your bladder and that\u2019s when they cause the inflammation. If you\u2019re currently undergoing chemotherapy then you may need to brace yourself for the possibility of cystitis developing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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4. Radiation cystitis<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

In the same vein as cancer treatment, it\u2019s worth mentioning that radiation therapy could also lead to the development of cystitis. This is especially true if the radiation therapy is targeted towards your pelvic area You\u2019re likely wondering why doctors would use radiation therapy on such an area, to begin with, but this is actually one of the few effective ways that we currently have in the fight against cervical cancer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Patients who suffer from cervical cancer<\/a> often have no choice but to undergo radiation therapy for their pelvic area. This can lead to changes in the tissue of their bladder and cause inflammation. When you factor in the risks posed by chemotherapy, you can see why cystitis is a common complication during the treatment of cancer. Sadly, until better treatment options are developed it will likely continue to be an issue for the years to come.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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5. Foreign-body cystitis<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Another thing that could lead to the development of cystitis is the presence of a foreign body. Catheters, in particular, could leave you at risk of developing cystitis. Various studies have shown a direct correlation between the development of cystitis in patients who have relied on catheters for a long period of time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This is due to the fact that chronic usage of a catheter can increase your risk of developing a bacterial infection \u2014 which can inflame the bladder \u2014 as well as damage your tissue. Even after the damage to your bladder tissue heals, the scars left behind may still increase the odds of you developing cystitis down the road.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For some, catheters <\/a>aren\u2019t optional and may actually be the easiest way to treat their existing condition. Just know that your risk of cystitis will be much higher if you go with that treatment path.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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6. Chemical cystitis<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Beyond catheters and radiation<\/a>, another thing that could lead to the development of cystitis is the use of various chemicals that you might have a hypersensitive reaction to. There are various consumer products that may contain these chemicals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Whether it\u2019s feminine sprays, bubble baths, or other hygienic products, it\u2019s important that you note which chemicals are present so that you can avoid those that you are known to be sensitive to.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are exposed to these chemicals you might have a reaction that\u2019s allergic in nature leading to severe inflammation of your bladder tissue. While cystitis due to bath products is relatively rare, you should avoid taking those chances and stick to hypoallergenic options instead. After all, when your bladder is at risk, why tempt fate?<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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7. Diabetes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Diabetes <\/a>is a horrible condition to deal with. It\u2019s often a lifelong struggle, and the fight just keeps getting harder. Things would be a lot easier if the fight ended at diabetes, but the condition can lead to the development of other complications such as blindness and gangrene. Cystitis is another condition that could be caused by diabetes. Many cases of cystitis develop due to the presence of a bacterial infection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Having high levels of sugar in your blood \u2014 as diabetes patients do \u2014 could help bacteria multiply faster. It\u2019s like preparing a buffet for the invaders to ensure that they have enough strength to defeat your forces. If you want to avoid cystitis then the best option is to stick to your diabetes treatment plan and take your insulin shots on a regular basis. Treating your diabetes persistently is the best way to prevent the development of other complications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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8. Kidney stones<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Kidney stones<\/a> are clumps of salt and other minerals that can lead to inflammation of your kidney. You\u2019re likely wondering what role it plays in the development of cystitis seeing as the blader is a separate organ from the kidney.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

That being said, the inflammation that kidneys stones cause can actually spread to the surrounding areas within your body. Think of the link between these two conditions as a pandemic on our planet. When one planet becomes infected with the virus, it can then spread to surrounding areas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The same rule holds true for inflammation. As your body starts to react to the kidney stones and inflame your kidney, the inflammation can then spread to your bladder causing cystitis. The easiest way to prevent the formation of interstitial cystitis as a result of kidney stones is by treating the stones immediately before they have the chance to cause more damage and inflammation to your body. You need to nip it at the bud, so to speak.
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9. Bladder Defects<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Interstitial cystitis can occur due to changes in the normal structure of the bladder or damage to the bladder <\/a>lining. As a result of the damage to the lining, urine will irritate the bladder walls, leading to sensations of pain and discomfort defined by the condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you start feeling a sense of irritation or discomfort in your bladder that gets progressively worse, speak to your doctor as soon as possible. The longer you leave the condition without treatment, the less the chance that you can make a recovery. Even with treatment, the patient may not be able to stop the condition’s progression. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

People with interstitial cystitis may confuse it with a UTI, and they may use antibiotics to try and treat the problem, with no success. The bladder irritation may cause the affected person to wake up in the night needing to pee. They may also find that having a full bladder causes pain, and they only receive temporary relief when they start peeing. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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10. Systemic Inflammation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

While the exact cause of interstitial cystitis remains a mystery to medical science, some researchers think it correlates with systemic inflammation <\/a>levels in the body. Recent research into inflammation and its effects on the body shows that high levels of inflammatory markers may cause all types of chronic disease. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you feel like you have bladder issues, visit your doctor and ask them to run a blood test on you. The doctor with look for elevated levels of inflammatory cytokines in your blood, signifying the presence of “systemic inflammation.” <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Systemic inflammation affects all the biological systems in the body, including the renal system. As a result of elevated levels of inflammatory markers, you may find that you start to develop all types of chronic inflammatory conditions, from IBS to Interstitial cystitis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To drop levels of systemic inflammation, consider eating a plant-based diet for a while and avoid bad lifestyle choices like fast food, alcohol, and smoking. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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11. Nerve Problems<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The Central Nervous System<\/a> (CNS) governs the nervous responses throughout the body, including the bladder. If the nervous system encounters disruption or damage, it may lead to feeling so pain. If there is damage to the nerves around the bladder due to trauma or disease that damages the CNS, it could lead to interstitial cystitis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When the nervous system can’t interact with the bladder, it causes dysfunction, leading to issues with incontinence and dribbling. While the CNS has problems maintaining the proper function of the bladder, it still manages to pick up sensations of pain. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

As a result, the patient experiences pain and bladder dysfunction, dramatically reducing their quality of life. Unfortunately, there is no way to repair nerve damage, and the patient will have to learn strategies to help them mitigate the effects of their condition. Doctors can assist the patient with managing their condition through the use of medications designed to assist with bladder control and manage nerve pain. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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12. Bladder Tissue Dysfunction<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

People suffering from interstitial cystitis may develop the condition due to dysfunction of the tissues in the bladder<\/a>. The chemical composition of the urine may interact with the soft tissues lining the bladder, causing a mild irritation in the affected individual at first. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

As the tissue continues to degrade, the affected individual notices that the feelings of irritation and discomfort continue to progress. Eventually, they start to notice pain sensations as the soft tissues erode completely from areas around the bladder. The salts in the urine come in contact with the bladder walls, causing pain and the start of the noticeable phase of interstitial cystitis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If left undiagnosed and untreated, the patient will continue to experience pain and discomfort. They will notice that the pain is severe when the bladder is full, and they may find it hard to start peeing. After relieving themselves, they may fail to clear the bladder, resulting in incontinence, causing them to leak urine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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13. Age-Related Risk<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The risk of developing interstitial cystitis increases as you get older. It’s more common for people to start developing the condition in their early 40s. Still, it may take years for them to begin experiencing the pain and severe discomfort associated with bladder irritation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Typically, it may take anywhere from five to ten years for the affected individual to notice the start of painful symptoms, but it’s different in everyone affected by the disorder. As the condition progresses, the affected individual may only start seeking treatment for the pain after a few years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Many people don’t report the early onset of the disorder because they assume that it won’t get any worse. However, it’s a slow degeneration of the bladder walls and stiffening of the muscles supporting its contraction<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Eventually, the affected individual realizes that they have a problem, and they visit the doctor for diagnosis and treatment. The physician will treat them with a cocktail of drugs to remove the pain and loosen the muscles controlling the bladder.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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14. More Common in Women<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Medical science is at a loss to explain why women are more affected by interstitial cystitis than men. Up to 90% of all people diagnosed with the disorder are women. As a result, doctors think that the onset of the condition may have something to do with a decline in hormone production as women enter their 40s and start menopause<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

While there is no conclusive evidence pointing to the validity of this theory, it seems to have a causal relationship to the problem. As women enter their 40s, they start to produce less of the female hormone estrogen. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Estrogen is responsible for many processes involving female sexual health. However, the patient still experiences the slow progression of the condition, even with the use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT)  prescribed by their doctor. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Around 3% to 6% of women experience the onset of interstitial cystitis in some form. This figure accounts for three to eight million American women. In contrast, around 1.3% of men develop the condition during their lifetime.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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15. Autoimmune Disorders<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The immune system is peculiar and one of the least understood aspects of human physiology. After decades of study, medical researchers are still unsure how the immune system <\/a>relates to certain health issues. The origin of problems like asthma, lupus, eczema, and other auto-immune disorders remains a mystery to medical researchers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

An auto-immune disorder describes a condition where the body’s immune system recognizes tissues and organs as invading pathogens. As a result, the immune system attacks the body, thinking that it is clearing an infection. As a result, the affected individual develops the signs of auto-immune distress. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some medical practitioners think that auto-immune response may cause interstitial cystitis, but there is no evidence confirming this theory. The idea is that the immune system sees the tissues and muscles around the bladder as an invading pathogen, causing the rapid deterioration of cells in and around the organ and the onset of interstitial cystitis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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16. Unknown Causes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The exact cause of interstitial cystitis<\/a> remains a mystery to medical science. While all the points mentioned in this post are possible causes of the disorder, there is no clear-cut evidence proving that they are, in fact, the cause of the condition. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

While factors like aging play a significant role in understanding the disease, it’s unclear if any of the other issues in this article have any causal effect on the development of interstitial cystitis. If a patient develops interstitial cystitis, their doctor will likely order a full blood panel to check all the body’s inflammatory markers, renal health, and hormone levels. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, regardless of the findings, there is no proven treatment for halting the progression of the disease or reversing it. All doctors can do is help the patient manage their condition to improve their quality of life. With anti-inflammatory medications, painkillers, and other drugs, the patient can mitigate the worst symptoms of the disease and lead a somewhat normal life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\r\n

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