How to Cope with Interstitial Cystitis

By Kristi Patrice Carter

Interstitial cystitis can be a debilitating condition. The condition itself can be very painful, but the pain affects every aspect of your life. Because of the pain, you are unable to exercise or even complete a full day’s work. You are unable to go out of your house for long periods of time out of fear of having an embarrassing accident. All of this is bad, but when compounded with little or no sleep every night, the situation becomes unbearable.

Being diagnosed with interstitial cystitis can be very lonely. Many people find that they isolate themselves from family and friends, preferring to stay in their house rather than risk a public accident. This can lead to depression.

Your family should be your primary support system. You should openly discuss your condition with your family. Once they understand your condition, they will be delighted to support you. You may find that they will volunteer to help around the house when your symptoms are more pronounced. They may even help out by researching alternative treatments for interstitial cystitis. Even if they are unable to help out in these ways, you will find that it is a great comfort to be able to talk to your family about how you are feeing without judgment or confusion.

Friends can also be very helpful, especially if you do not have many family members living nearby. Instead of meeting friends at a restaurant for dinner, you could host a potluck dinner at your home. You could also host a monthly movie night at your house or even a card night. People will be understanding and supportive once they understand your condition. They will be more than willing to adjust their social patterns in order to incorporate you into their plans.

There may be a local support group in your area for people with bladder issues. There may even be a support group for people with interstitial cystitis. If you have access to these groups, you will meet others who are going through the exact same things you are going through. People in these groups are eager to share tips and resources they found helpful to them. If you have the opportunity, you should seek out these support groups.

If there are no support groups in your area, there are online forums designated specifically for people with interstitial cystitis. A quick Google search can direct you to several of these forums. There are also several medical sites that also have links to forums on interstitial cystitis. These forums can be almost as valuable as the local support groups. While you will not receive local tips and information, such as doctors, you will still receive the support of people who have experiences that are similar to yours.

There is help out there for people with interstitial cystitis. All you have to do is take a few steps out of your comfort zone in order to start reaping the rewards.