Interstitial Cystitis

Interstitial cystitis is a condition in which there is mild to severe pain in the urinary bladder and the pelvic region, often accompanied with the urge to urinate frequently and a feeling of pressure and burning around the urinary tract. Popularly known as the painful bladder syndrome, this condition mostly affects women and can seriously hamper their normal routine. Among the other symptoms of interstitial cystitis are painful intercourse for women and pain during ejaculation for men. It is believed that weakness of the muscles of the urinary bladder causes a premature signal to be sent to the brain that triggers the urge to urinate even when the bladder is not full and over time gives rise to the symptoms mentioned above. Among other probable causes of interstitial cystitis is a leak in the thin protective lining of the bladder, which lets toxic substances enter into the bladder and cause irritation and pain.

Interstitial Cystitis Natural Remedies

There are a few dietary measures that you should follow in order to relieve some of the symptoms of interstitial cystitis. Avoid foods that might cause irritation to the urinary tract, such as processed and artificially flavored snacks, carbonated beverages, deep fried and spicy foods, coffee, beans, dairy products and citrus fruits. Increase your daily consumption of unrefined whole grains and cereals, nuts, fresh fruits and raw vegetables, and cold-water fish like tuna, salmon and sardines. Also, drink plenty of water and unsweetened fruit juices to cleanse toxins out of the urinary tract. You should quit smoking and drinking completely as they tend to aggravate the condition. Besides these basic measures, you may also try a few natural remedies for interstitial cystitis. Drink a cup of warm tea made by simmering the herb horsetail in hot water. This acts as a natural diuretic and reduces the intensity of the pain and burning sensation in the bladder and the pelvis. Another natural means to cure interstitial cystitis is to soak some marshmallow root in a jar of cold water for several hours and then drink this infusion. This soothes the irritated lining of the bladder. If you suffer from extreme pain and cramping in the pelvic region, massaging the area with some warm castor oil can also provide temporary relief. In addition, de-stress yourself physically and mentally by practicing yogic exercises that focus on strengthening the pelvic floor and soaking your body in a tub of warm water.