Interstitial cystitis (IC) can be a painful and difficult illness. Often it takes years for a woman and her doctor to identify the condition and find treatments that effectively control her symptoms. Although none of the ideas in this section will cure your IC, they may help you reduce your symptoms and feel more in control of your illness.

If you are feeling overwhelmed by your circumstances, ask your doctor about counselling or support groups in your area. The Interstitial Cystitis Network (ICN) may also be able to direct you to a support group in your area. Your emotional well-being is just as important as your physical care.

Part of caring for yourself emotionally is caring for your personal relationships. Of course, pain and bladder problems can make you feel irritable. Try to be open with your family and friends about what you are feeling. You may feel awkward about talking about bladder problems or it may seem like your family and friends really don't want to hear about them! They may not want all the intimate details, but if they care about you, they should care that you are having pain or feeling overwhelmed.

It may also be useful to turn to others who have IC for support. Several of the IC sites listed in the Health A-Z section list support groups. You can also join Le Club and receive support from other women in our online moderated discussion groups. Because IC can sometimes be a barrier in an intimate relationship, partner counselling may also be appropriate. See our FAQs page for more about IC and sexual activity.

Use the following links to learn about changes that you can make to your diet and lifestyle to help you cope with your condition. The Interstitial Cystitis Network provides an excellent and detailed self-help handbook, which is available online at
www.ic-network.com/handbook.

• Food and drink
• Coping with flare-ups