What it is
The cause is not fully known; the bladder lining may be damaged or inflamed. Certain foods and drinks, stress and periods can make it worse.
There is no single cure. Diet changes, bladder training, physiotherapy, medicines and treatments put directly into the bladder can help control symptoms.
Common signs
- Pain in the lower tummy or pelvis that gets worse as the bladder fills
- Needing to pee often, including at night
- A sudden, strong urge to pee
- Pain during sex
How it is usually diagnosed
- Urine tests to rule out infection
- A bladder diary
- Cystoscopy to look inside the bladder
- Tests to rule out other causes
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Urine test results
- Bladder diaries
- Cystoscopy reports
- A list of treatments tried and what helped
Questions to ask your doctor
- Have other causes been ruled out?
- Which foods or drinks might be triggers for me?
- What treatments can we try next?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Being unable to pee
- Fever with back or side pain
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.