The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.
Multiple Remedies
Posted by Mag (Philadelphia, Pa) on 01/24/2012
I have had IC for 3 years now - it started with a UTI and an acute onset of endometriosis and pelvic floor dysfunction. At first, I had a small amount of pain when I ate sugar and fruit - not huge, just a little. I went on antibiotics for 9 months and I was better while on them (I no longer had to get up during the night at all to use the restroom), but I think I further aggrevated my candida problem, which I think is at the root of all of this. I now have no more endometriosis and my PFD has also resolved (anticandida diet and active release technique helped that). I believe I have had candida for a very long time, possibly since I was a young child, and that set me up for a series of 4 or 5 UTIs which brought all of this on. I have been detoxing for a year and a half and have tried numerous herbs, diets (Macrobiotic for 6 months) and I am now trying bladder insulflations of Ozone, which have shown some promise. I was also trying oral Hydrogen Peroxide therapy, but that caused me a huge flare - and I don't really get big flares, just minor irritation. I am thinking of quieting my bladder lining a bit and then doing IV Hyrdrogen Peroxide along with the Ozone to chase out these bad bugs. I am on a strict anticandida diet and I eat lots of good fat (as called for in Bee's healing diet). I am hopeful that I will finally find the holy grail and get rid of this stuff for good. I have had candida in my stomach (gastritis), intestines (IBS), sinuses, on my face and on my scalp and getting rid of it in the bladder has been the hardest. Good luck to everyone with this horrific illness.
Multiple Remedies
Posted by Kimberly (Camas, Washington) on 08/04/2011
Hi! I was the other woman at the Anderson/Wise Clinic. I'm doing fantastic... On a trip to NYC. Thank you SOOOO much for recommending the Oxytrol patch. My doc gave me another version - a geletin that I put on every day. Oh my gosh... The frequent urination stopped within 48 hours. I was comfortable on the airplane and have had a wonderful trip. God bless you for suggesting it!
There are so many causes and treatments for IC that aren't being mentioned by people on this listserve. I would urge you all to read Wendy Cohen's The Better Bladder book (Amazon). Each of us is different but if you work through a list of possibilities, you can get well. Many of us have!
Kimberly in Camas, Washington
Aloe Vera
Posted by Nettie (Chicago, Il) on 07/29/2011
★★★★★
I have used a supplement from evenbetternow.com for my IC (I think it's called Buffer Ph). It has aloe vera in it and alkalizes your ph if you are acid, which was part of my problem. I tested my ph and was as acidic as one can get. Bad news and dangerous. I take 2 caps 3X per day on an empty stomach. I also take a multi-vitamin, vitamin D, Calcium, Magnesium, high dose Omega 3, probiotics and some supplements that my acupuncturist gave me. I get acupuncture once per week. It's been a life saver. Along with the IC, I also had problems with chronic UTI's, which I cured by taking Inner Defense capsules from the essential oil company, Youngliving. Before starting on the essential oils, I was taking antibiotics all the time and they were making me more and more sick. The ant-bacterial essential oils got me off of the antibiotic cycle and have helped to strengthen my immune system.
Reader Feedback
Posted by Teri (Tacoma, Wa) on 05/19/2012
To all who are facing the challenge;
I was diagnosed with IC in 2002. I was scared and devastated because I soon realized that IC has no cure. I had the most respected urologist in the area as my doctor and great health insurance, yet the treatment plan he offered me was useless. I was facing a future of misery. My doctor wanted me on 5 different medications and wanted to schedule a surgery for my incontinence. I left his office and never returned. I realized that I was going to have to do my own research if I was going to have any hope at a normal life.
First I changed my diet, just with this careful analysis I drastically reduced my symptoms. In time all of my symptoms went away. I was symptom free for years. My incontinence resolved as well.
Now over the past 2 years I've had two flare ups. In the last flare up I went to urgent care and was treated for a UTI. Upon examining my urine they confirmed that most definitely I had a UTI, however my lab results were negative.
So again, my quest for treatment has resumed. I have been enjoying all the info on this site. I plan to try most of what I'm seeing here because it's less intrusive to the body than what my Dr offered. And because it seems to work better. If it works, it works.
One thing I have found to bring instant relief from the burning pain around the urethra and surrounding tissue is lavender oil. The real essential oil. I mix this with vitamins E and rub it liberally and gently where it hurts. The pain stop instantly. It is replace by a sort of menthol cooling sensation. I have a couple recipes for this blend. You can add Bergamont eo and a tiny bit of oregano oil. But I think the main relief comes from the lavender. This doesn't surprise me because lavender is great for burns. It takes the sting out.
Lavender 30 drops
Vitamine E. 1 tbls
Oregano 1 drop
Bergamont 5 drops
I carry this with me at all times.
Regards. Teri
Apple Cider Vinegar and Hydrogen Peroxide Douche
Posted by Shawna (Bronson, Mi) on 02/25/2011
★★★★★
I want to say thank you for this idea. I have been battleing urinary issues since just before Thanksgiving. These issues include constant burning, pressure and really bad spasms. Tests continue to be negative for infection. I've been on antibiotic off and on the whole time and __viaz for about a month, still no relief. Pain so bad at time I can't get out of bed, sleep in a recliner with pillows between my legs and have been off work for over a month. Running to the bathroom 30 or 40 times a day and 8-12 times at night has foreced me to hybernate. I started using the half perioxide half apple cider douche 3 days ago and drinking lemon juice with honey also and feel like a new person. Only getting up 1-2 times at night is awesome and I no longer feel the spasms or my bladder hardening. I quit taking my scripts yesterday and can not wait to go back in next week and find out the results of my scope and udi test. But am so thankful you shared this remedy.
Barley Milk
Posted by Mel (Portland, Or) on 11/25/2010
★★★★★
Whole Barley Milk with MSM Recipe
This recipe is very easy and cheap to make. Whole barley flour can usually be purchased from a health food store or ordered online for about $2/lb. The cheapest source of pure MSM powder I have found is an online bulk food supply site for $9.71/lb, and it lasts a really long time. Even if you omit MSM from the recipe, it is still wonderfully soothing and healing. Whole barley milk is smooth, creamy, and easy to drink. Personally, I find it tasty. It is a perfect beverage for mixing in other supplements such as ph drops, aloe, condroitin, d-mannose, liquid calcium, etc. It makes a nice smoothie shaken-up with 100% blueberry juice. I have been drinking about a quart of whole barley milk a day and it has helped me greatly. I recommend it for any one wanting to improve their health, especially those suffering with IC, UTIs, arthritis, or heartburn. Like marshmallow root water, barley water is demulcent. It is purportedly soothing and healing to soft tissues, such as internal organ linings and soft tissues surrounding joints throughout the body. Water boiled from barley has been used for digestive health and general soothing tonic for centuries. Whole barley is rich in fiber and good for cholesterol health. I usually triple this recipe, making three quarts at a time. Ingredients:
2 tablespoons whole barley flour, organic preferred, - not coarsely ground
1 pinch sea salt, optional
1 tablespoon raw honey or organic agave syrup, optional
1 tablespoon safflower, grapeseed, or coconut oil; cold-pressed/organic preferred
1 level teaspoon pure MSM powder
4 cups cold water
Have a clean quart jar and lid handy for each quart of milk being prepared. In a good non-reactive saucepan, whisk the barley flour into 3 cups of the cold water, and heat over medium-low heat, stirring regularly until steaming. Do not boil. Whisk or shake the MSM into the remain 1 cup of water, and set aside. Add salt and honey or agave to the saucepan, if desired. Continue to heat and stir until thickened (about 5 to 10 minutes). It should look something like skim milk the consistency of heavy cream, and should be well heated like hot soup. Remove from heat. Whisk in oil. Whisk in MSM mixture. Pour un-cooled into clean quart jar, cap and refrigerate. Chill barley milk overnight before using. This allows fine barley particles to fully absorb liquid. Shake well before serving. If you prefer a thinner beverage, mix with water or blueberry juice. Keep stored barley milk refrigerated and use within a week. Notes about adding other supplements: A single serving size (as directed) of supplements such as ph drops, liquid condroitin, and/or d-mannose powder may be mixed in the last cup of water along with the MSM, before incorporating into the barley milk and refridgerating. Heat sensitive supplements - such as Aloe, or supplements that should not be taken near bedtime - such as liquid calcium, may be added when serving, if desired.
About me:
I am a 38 yrs old. I believe that I have had too much acid in my system my whole life, both as a result of diet and exacerbated by times of stress. As I approach middle age, soft tissues throughout my body are suffering, especially my bladder lining and those involving my joints. I have been a natural foods junkie most of my adult life - but unfortunately I also had a serious daily habit for all things extremely spicy and sour, as well as copious amounts of caffeinated tea. I also drank alcohol and smoked cigarettes socially. For bodily comfort, I have omitted these things from my diet/habits. General stress reduction is also a must. Yoga helps! Best of luck and health!
Barley Milk
Posted by Ziggy (Franklin, Pa) on 11/29/2010
I have read your post & see that you suffer from ic & joint pain. I am currently going thru the same thing at this time. Do you know why you have the joint pain. Just curious to know if you found out anything. Thanks so much!
Barley Milk
Posted by Mel (Portland, Or) on 12/22/2010
★★★★★
I can not say for sure if there is a direct link between my personal joint pain and I.C. , however, I believe they are indeed related. I believe they are related because first because the dietary/supplement remedies that help one always seem to help the other. And correspondingly, when one is flaring, so is the other. I believe that they are conditions both exacerbated by high acidity in the system, either as a result of diet, or stress, or both. These are the dietary items I have found that seem to give me comfort, relief, and healing... -barley water, and barley milk
-eastern barley (also known as hato mugi, jobs tears, coix), also as water or milk
-unflavored gelatin, mixed with cold water, then dissolved in tea or hot water and drunk or added to kefir, nondairy drink, or low-acid juice
-agar, used with beverages the same way as gelatin, above
-whole grain hemp seed milk
-whole grain unsweetened brown rice milk
-whole mixed grain nondairy beverage (a healthfood chain sells one with quinoa and amaranth)
-coconut water/juice (all natural)
-carrot juice
-marshmallow root tea
-soaked basil seed drink (all natural/homemade)
-fresh broccoli and kale sprouts
-onions
-chondroitin supplement
-msm supplement
-d-mannose supplement
If there is anything above you have not heard of, search it online and you will find info. I am doing very well after changing my diet and drinking plenty of the assorted beverages listed here. Good luck!
Barley Milk
Posted by Renae (Hastings, Mn) on 09/02/2011
Reader Feedback
Posted by Jean (Wellsboro, Pa) on 02/07/2011
I was diagnosed with IC 1 1/2 yrs ago after a urogynecologist did a rectocele & urethral sling surgery. She suspected it before surgery & after testing in her office she said the only true way to diagnose this is during surgery when the surgeon fills your bladder with saline to full capacity & then takes films of the bladder. IC shows as tears in the lining. I had tiny tears and the treatment recommended was Elmiron(which I declined as it is a type of blood thinner), or bladder instillations (which I was taught to do at home) especially diet.
Eliminating caffeine, all artificial sweetners, all citrus & tomato products and advanced kegal exercises. These have helped me quite a bit. Baking soda 1 tsp in water 2x day gives fairly fast relief. My IC is not severe but extremely uncomfortable. Marshmallow root tea was also recommended in a book a read. Also helpful, but I'm not very disciplined, is the gluten=free diet which helps overall body inflammation. Did I mention I also have Sjogren's syndrome (severe dry eyes, nose, mouth, etc.) And allergies. I'm going to try the colloidal silver. Hope this helps someone.
Reader Feedback
Posted by Renae (Minneapolis, Mn) on 04/20/2011
★★★★★
I FOUND THE ANSWER TO THIS NASTY IC DISEASE. There is a book called "The Better Bladder Book", written just this year. In it, it says that Gluten Intolerance is the problem for 91% of the people with IC. I had been off most Gluten already, but was still eating croutons and chicken, and fish that was breaded, etc. I bought a basic book on "Gluten Intolerance" and WOW. One month later, I feel great!!! I can go without straining!! I can go in the public restroom again. Wow!! I don't sit and wait, and wait to go. It is way less of a diet constriction to go gluten free than remove all the IC foods and feel like I'm left with nothing to eat. I am already not eating sugar (IBS-I use stevia instead) and no dairy (face breaks out) so eating is difficult already.
After only 2 weeks I was off Hydroxyzine HCL (a antihistime for the bladder). I was able to cope just fine. After one month, I still go 2-4 times per night, but feel great during the day. I can eat onions and tomatoes again. White wine. I need more time to reintroduce most IC trigger foods, but I believe I will be able to slowly bring them back into my diet over the next year. The book said that most people getting off Gluten will take awhile to get better. This depends on how long you were sick and how bad. I was 5 yrs and in the end was a 10 out of 10 for constant severe pain. Now I can drive long distances and go on airplanes. This is HUGE for me. I can drive or sit though church/seminars for 1.5 hrs without a restroom break. I had been down to 5 minutes before getting off Gluten. That included at night. The auther of the book said she is overwhelmed iwth responses from IC people. I would love to see a seperate area on this website for people's responses to Gluten Intolerance. Do a search on the Author's name for more info.
Reader Feedback
Posted by Mary (Edina, Mn) on 12/02/2011
If you have tried everything, and you can't get relief, try what I have tried: It's a acidophilis product found online or in large health food stores. It contains:
Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1
Google these for the product. If you look under amazon for it, there are hundreds of Vaginial Bactriorosis stories, but also some on IC. So hey I bought a bottle and WOW was it helpful. Pain gone. Like fast. Except I still can't cheat on the diet. But I can sleep, and go in the car on long rides, etc. For anyone with pain: Here is the fastest route to use this product: Day 1 eat 2 in AM, and 2 in vaginal tract. Just push the capsules up there. They will disintegrate. Within one hour, the pain will go to about zero. Then eat 2 b4 bed, and 2 more vaginally, After that, eat 2-3 per day, and 2-3 vaginally (especially 2 b4 bedtime). Stools may get looser. Maintain at 1 to 2 per day per oriface. Must be refrigerated. Buy the 60 capsule bottle as it 's almost the same price as the 30 capsules. Not a cure, but insanely helpful. I've been on this stuff for 3 weeks. I was about to go crazy. I had tried everything over 5 yrs. Side effect: at 3 capsules/day vaginally, the vaginal fluid smells acidic. Almost like stale pee. But hey it was just a few days. After 3 weeks I still can't try new foods, as when I do, I must do a vanignal capsule to calm down my bladder, but I am not in pain after about 1 hr. Blessings, Mary
Reader Feedback
Posted by Tracy B (Richmond) on 08/23/2015
It's interesting to read about The IUD then the bacterial infection followed by numerous yeast infections. Same thing happened for me in that order. I wonder if the IUD is the cause? Bummer cause I was probably the healthiest person in the world prior to developing IC.
Some information tho or hope for others going through this. I went to a Naturopath 2 months ago who found I had massive amounts of solvents (I work in automotive) in my body along with too much yeast. I started taking solvent removers and Unda 38/8 and after 1 week I quit having the symptoms of IC and have not had any in 2 months. I sleep through the night without having to go to the washroom and don't have the sudden OMG urges I used to.
IC is caused by something and once that "something" is removed, the bladder starts to heal. It's worth a shot!
Quercetin
Posted by Janetspencer (London, United Kingdom) on 05/26/2010
★★★★★
Dear all,
I also like the naturale food supplements and remedies. I tried a natural product composed of Quercetin, D-Mannose and other natural products from plant kingdom. It was a great solution for my IC problems and now after about 5 months of treatments I'm really feeling well.
I suggest you to try Quercetin products, there are no side effects and you won't get antibiotics anymore. Feel you free to contact me for any further information.
[email protected]
cheers.
Janet
Quercetin
Posted by Teresa (Rockville, Md) on 04/27/2010
★★★★★
I have suffered from IC for years. I take a prescription med but also take quercetin. I have been in remission for 8 years.
Marshmallow Root
Posted by Angela (Houston, Tx) on 01/14/2010
I was diagnosed with mild IC a little over 4 years ago, but think I've had it more like 20...I remember trip after trip to the dr's for a UTI, finding nothing wrong, but being prescribed antibiotics. Been taking Elmiron on/off for the past 4 years and have finally had it. I've lost so much hair over the past year, and finally faced the fact that it does nothing for me! Also done the whole DMSO thing, but think that's more painful that helpful. Anyone else felt the same way? I'm usually in bed the rest of the day from pain. I've got Marshmallow Root and Whole Leaf Aloe on the way, and use baking soda for a quick fix. Will let you know how my experiment goes! : )
Cinnamon
Posted by Donna (Royal Oak, Mi) on 01/05/2010
★★★★★
I've battled bladder issues all my life, and for a while, high contentrations of cranberry (pills, not juice - juice has too much sugar which feeds the infection) helped. That was until I got IC and became antibiotic resistant. Felt like I was peeing glass. By fluke I read 3 sentences in a magazine that saved me - it basically said that cinnamon kills off E-coli. E-coli is often the cause of bladder issues and IC. I started taking cinnamon capsules and felt major relief in a matter of a few days. I highly recommend it to anyone who suffers from IC. You'll sing its praises too.
Cinnamon
Posted by Donna (Royal Oak, Mi) on 01/08/2010
★★★★★
Fresh is of course always better, but I basically took premade capsules for the convenience. Started out with 4-6 a day, a couple in the morning, afternoon and evening. After the symptoms were alleviated, I gradually reduced my intake. I still will take one a day, and sprinkle fresh cinnamon on my toast or apples just for maintenance purposes. Wonderful thing is that cinnamon also helps stomach issues! (gas, bloating,etc) It is a miracle worker as far as I am concerned.
Hydrogen Peroxide, Iodine, Organic Food
Posted by Dms (Chandler, Az) on 05/02/2010
Iodine - CAUTION!!! - SHELLFISH Allergy
If you are allergic to shellfish you may also have an allergic reaction to iodine.
Proceed with caution - consult your physician before using iodine.
Be Well
Dietary Changes
Posted by Husseypat (Panama City, FL) on 10/06/2009
★★★★☆
Interstitial Cystitis
I have IC and have suffered severe pelvic pain. Diet has helped a lot, but I am definitely not pain free. I have found that heat can help the pain temporarily and that the acid reducer listed on the IC NETWORK does help if you take it before every meal or snack. I know tomatoes drive me to a bad flare-up, so I try to avoid them at all cost. It's very hard to not eat foods with any preservatives-----that means nothing out of a box, can, or package. I do not drink ANYTHING but water. I wondered if anyone knows which of the bottled waters has the highest PH and the least of damaging processing for an IC patient. I can't walk much, stand much and definitely can't exercise. I get horrible pain. I bought an Elliptical Trainer machine and after a couple of days it had my pelvic in a complete knot. I have always exercised religiously, but not anymore. I find this condition can be very depressing because you know the lining in your bladder is gone forever and you have to deal with this the rest of your life. You look healthy when people see you, but they can't imagine the suffering you do in private. Good luck to all. pat
Turmeric
Posted by Elizabeth (Nashville, Tn) on 11/12/2010
Yezenia- I've had to do alot of experimenting with my YI/BV/IC issues. I can honestly say that most of the time I am pain free. I believe I've had and still have systemic candida from overuse of antibiotics and cortisteroid medications for my asmtha. It doesn't help that my immune system has never been very strong either. I've experienced alot of improvement with my YI/BV issues by using boric acid suppositories that I make at home. I did alot of internet research before I finally took the plunge. It's a personal decision.. You have to weigh the pros and cons. I use the boric acid after I have sex and after my period to correct the alkaline ph these instances cause. Also, I will use an empty veggie capsule filled with jojoba oil and one or two drops of oregano oil to fight any active infection (in conjuction with the boric acid). I find this one-two punch approach really knocks out the infection quickly. I also find that drinking aloe juice, the distilled kind, really helps with repairing the bladder lining. I try to drink it at night right before bed so it can hang out in the bladder for awhile.
Turmeric
Posted by Tom (Regina, Sk) on 12/30/2010
Barbara:
Did you ever try d-mannose, the sugar in such as blueberries and cranberries that is determined as the real healing substance in those products?
http://www.tahomaclinic.com/mannose.shtml
D-mannose is a naturally occurring simple sugar, closely related (in chemical terms, a "stereoisomer") to glucose. Small amounts of D-mannose are metabolized by our bodies; more than small amounts are excreted promptly into the urine. But how can even large quantities of a simple natural sugar do anything at all to cure over 90% of all bladder and urinary tract infections?
The answer is found in the interaction between D-mannose and the bacterium found in over 90% of all bladder infections, Escherichia coli ("E. Coli"). [No, that's not the infamous E. Coli mutant associated with unsanitary food processing that's hospitalized and killed people. It's the normal E. coli found as part of the "normal microflora" in every intestinal tract.
But even normal E. Coli don't belong in the bladder and urinary tract; in these areas it multiplies and becomes an undesirable infection. But why doesn't the normal downflow of urine from the kidneys through the ureters into the bladder and thence beyond simply carry the E. Coli right along with it? What allows the E. Coli to "stick" to the inner walls of the bladder and even work their way upward (like "Spiderman") in some cases reaching as far as the kidneys?
Mannose found as a supplement in a bottle is not one of the cheaper nutraceuticals, because of course there is only a tiny percent by weight of it in a pound of blueberries. But compared to the miseries of a UTI, it would amount to nothing if it works! Example of bottles of mannose here in BING Images:
http://www.bing.com/images/search?q=d-mannose&go=&form=QBLH&scope=images&filt=all
Turmeric
Posted by Barb B (Lakeland, Fl Usa) on 01/03/2011
Thanks for the feedback, Tom. I did try a big jar of the D-Mannose. I've used it in the past with great success, but not this time. I took antibiotics almost continually for 10 months and every time I got off them, the infection was back the next day. I took the anitibiotics, the probiotics and the D-Mannose, plus AZO or other OTC, but the infection was relentless. Xylitol was the only thing that kept it at bay. It still keeps it at bay but it doesn't get rid of the infection. I would have tried the D-Mannose with the Xylitol along with the antibiotic and probiotics, but my funds are very limited.
Turmeric
Posted by Elizabeth (Nashville, Tn) on 01/03/2011
Barb- Try taking Uva Ursi with a little pinch of baking soda in your water. The alkalinity of the BS lets the uva ursi do its thing. I love the stuff.
Turmeric
Posted by Shampoo (Los Angeles, Ca) on 06/07/2012
★★★★★
IC Symptoms and Turmeric:
Turmeric is awesome for me. I cap my own and I take about 3 capsules, three times a day, and MSM powder as well, I take about 2 capsules three times a day.
Multiple Remedies
Posted by Les (Federal Way, Wa) on 04/29/2009
I am replying to a post by one who excused herself for being long winded. Please keep it up. It was great reading.
From a sufferer of IC
Multiple Remedies
Posted by Motek0844 (Calgary, Ab, Canada) on 10/05/2011
Elizabeth from Nashville, TN.. I have no clue how to e-mail you so I ask please send one e-mail to me so I can get the subject *5* product name mention by you to keep acid level in balance.
Thank you. Bless all of us and YES.. Each person has to find their own treatment since none is the same for all. I work on ACV, baking soda, lots and lots of veggies alkaline producing, very little acidic food no longer (hard this one), and a new product available taken over two days and it reduces the pain ONLY. Potassium Sodium. Only good for folks with no high blood pressure. Kidney could also be at stake taken it to often. But it does work.
Thank you for sharing it is confusing.. But I know I once have the yeast under control much already is established. I got this from to many month on antibiotic due to a bone infection which I got from a surgery. YUP. I was on heavy cocktail dosages of antibiotics for 8 month.. got through it with result now of IC.
Bless you all and Elizabeth thank you should you read this mail and letting me know about the name of product.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Vegathegreat (Charlotte, Nc) on 01/13/2011
I am also in Charlotte. You should go see Dr. Robert Evans in Greensboro, NC. He's one of the foremost IC experts in the country, and is extremely knowledgeable.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Gene (New York) on 09/12/2014
To Nancy: You might want to look into Pelvic Floor Dysfunction. Read an article in Prevention Mag. called Why I Hurt Down There.
Turmeric and Lemon Juice
Posted by Sun (Abbotsford, Canada) on 08/06/2010
Hi,
You can easily find some of these ingredients such as turmeric from East Indian food stores. I think the turmeric powder there is usually diluted with some chemical or other, probably used to dissolve the root. So the quality of turmeric powder can vary. You could buy whole turmeric, leave it out in the sun for a long time, and then pulverize it. A lot of work, but very good for u. If it doesn't work, then boil it for awhile, that's better than turmeric (haldhi) with chemical additives. Although we still use those for our cooking. Also, google Iherb to order lots of cheap supplements.
Alkaline pH
Posted by Anjie (Goodlettsville, TN) on 04/16/2009
Please help me understand this. I was told 3 weeks ago that I probably had I.C. UGH!!!!! My Dr. gave me Enanblex and the run down on this disease and told me to check several websites and support groups on how to deal with this. His nurse said it all to do with what I ate and if I ate something acidic to do the baking soda trick. It didn't help as a matter of fact it seem to get worse and my urine then had a foul odor with some pus in it. I finally convinced my Neurologist not my gyno to put me on antibiotics (even though the urinalysis was negative)and it seem to start getting better right away. Does any body else have this problem? I did find that you can use _____ to remove the acid from foods and it comes in a oral tablet & a granule formula to put in foods that you are cooking.I feel like I need to find a different Dr. because he wasn't very helpful and basically told me to talk to the internet if I had a problem. Any feed back would be so helpful.
Alkaline pH
Posted by Lisa (Hastings, Mn) on 06/16/2011
★★★★★
Yes. I agree. Calcium Citrate did the trick. And Fast. Pain gone almost right way and permanently. I can eat much larger variety after only a few days. Staying off citrus and tomato sauce because I don't want to push it, as I am back on low acid caffeinated coffee after only 2 wks and I am afraid to push it. I need the caffeine more to get to work. I am also back on chocolate. If I take it on an empty stomach though I get nauseous! I take 3 to 4 per day. If I take 4 I get dry lips though. PH of urine is VERY alkaline.
Alkaline pH
Posted by Renae (Mpls, Mn) on 07/12/2011
★★★★☆
Update: still have IC as a problem even w/calcium and mag. Not cured. Can't open up diet much, but constant pain gone. Took awhile to get the correct calcium to magnesium ratio. As I have fibro and that got bad (as did constipation) on just the calcium citrate (w/the little magnesium oxide that was in the capsel) so had to add more magnesium oxide , but adding too much caused diarrhea. After finetuning this I still need to move on to do more w/glucosamine and condritan, but have a hard time taking that due to gastro issues. I am going to try some "manesium citrate and ozide", together as I keep reading about how the citrate changes urine PH to alkaline.
Alkaline pH
Posted by Treasa (Florida) on 04/26/2017
Interesting you mention potassium! The Dr mentioned I might have IC. I've been taking azo standard when it's really bad till we get it figured out.
I happened to have a banana two days in a row and last night even with azo standard I was in MAJOR discomfort. Drinking Apple cidar vinergar, Hot showers, heating pad, everything, I could hardly stand it. :( Maybe the culprit is Bananas? Aren't they high in potassium?
Angelica
Posted by Pauls (Kansas) on 07/14/2023
What brand of tea are you using? I have a friend suffering with this horrible condition. She is getting very depressed. Maybe this will help her.
Multiple Supplements
Posted by Eva (England) on 04/28/2020
★★★★★
I was diagnosed with Interstitial Cystitis 10 years ago after many unsuccessful rounds of antibiotics for a UTI. At my worst, I was house bound and could not leave the house. I was searching for another remedy and realised that I had never written down what helped me recover and so thought I would pass this along to anyone else who needs help. Supplements I used: Marshmallow Leaf Tea Cornsilk Tea Iron (I was anaemic) Probiotics D-Mannose I went on to an acid free diet and ate lots of lettuce and cucumber, which helped. I also used exercises from Amy Steins - Heal Pelvic Pain. It was slow at first, but I gradually began to improve. I went back to my normal life and diet eventually, although would limit foods like oranges and coffee. If I get ill or run down it flares slightly, but I can quickly get it back on track. I live normally and for the most part do not give it a second thought, so if you are struggling- remember it is not forever. I would also have bad days in the beginning by trying to do too much, but when I rested I would feel better than before. Good luck!
Multiple Supplements
Posted by Julie (Oregon) on 04/24/2020
★★★★★
After much trial and error here is what tamps down a flare up of IC for me every time. Hope it works for others as well. Here is what I take: Grapefruit seed extract: 2caps. ( I think this works as an antibiotic.) UVA Ursi: 2 caps Prelief: 2 caps (I order from amazon but hear Walgreens carries it). D-Mannose: 2 caps ( I now buy this in bulk from bulk supplements on amazon. Way cheaper. Take a Tlb.) AZO 2 tablets. ( for the pain and urinary urgency) Aspirin, ibuprophen or Tylenol ( for the pain). I either lie down with a heating pad or I buy from dollar store a stick on heating pad.
One that heats up when air touches it. Has round disks embedded in fabric that heat up. There is no medication in it. Just warmth which lasts for hours. I usually can only find the kind that goes on shoulders but I put it on my lower stomach and it's held in place with the two self stick ends and my own pants. Feels very comforting. Usually I just have to do one round of this but occasionally I've had to do two rounds in a day. This works every time and stays away until something triggers it again. Sometimes I use it right away before symptoms flare up if I know I'm going to be triggered such as after intimate relations. This works as a preventative in that situation.
Diatomaceous Earth
Posted by Jamielynn (MT) on 01/31/2022
I know this an old post from 2019, but I just want to know how you know the DE makes it to the bladder? I've read that it cannot be absorbed into bloodstream....
Diatomaceous Earth
Posted by Helen (HI) on 11/01/2024
Hi there. Is the DE still working for you?
Multiple Remedies
Posted by Beloved (Orange County CA) on 01/09/2022
Thank you for the tip. So much of what goes in our body plays a huge part in how we feel. Pain meds either over the counter or prescription have made me and my body actually feel worse. They are a chemical donut makes sense to some of us that have sensitive bodies. Stress plays a big role, good coping skills like walking outside, praying or laughing with a loved one all help and so does a little bit of baking soda :)
Multiple Remedies
Posted by Rene (England) on 05/09/2023
You sound so sensible and I would love to have your strength. I am not even sure that I have IC and living in Britain the only way that I can find out without waiting months is to go private which is very expensive. I am 82 and have been dogged by uti all my life but this is different. I was going shopping and was walking from the car park to the shops and this pain came into my lower back, lt spread up my back to my waist and then round to the front. The only way that I could explain is it was like the worst childbirth pain. My husband got me back to the car and I was in agony. It doesn't seem much different three weeks later. Pain more at the front now but although not passing a lot of urine it's slightly cloudy but not burning. How can I have a uti without strong urine? I have tried the cider vinegar and baking powder and curculio etc..no better. All this seems to have started after I was trying urology for Seborrheic keratosis. I had been doing it for 3 weeks. I have now abandoned the idea, at least for the time being. I am just in so much pain.
Dietary Change, Probiotics
Posted by JEAN (Ajax ontario) on 05/16/2021
What kind of probiotics do you take? I would love to not get up to pee at night.
Marshmallow Root
Posted by Erin (MD) on 06/04/2022
I just wanted to know how you cleared up the yeast infection issue as I am going through something very very similar. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Ozone
Posted by Robert Henry (Ten Mile, Tn.) on 04/27/2017
The only problem that the FDA has approved Ozone for is Interstitial Cystitis. I am presently reading Dr Shallengeberger's latest book, The Ozone Miracle, and he describes where folks that require self bladder catheterization can easily treat this problem with ozone.
I have just redone all my ozone tubing after 5 years of deterioration and now back in business. Today, I drank a large glass of ozonated water and did my ozone ear insufflation. Later, I will breath it for 10 minutes while bubbling ozone through olive oil.
Finally back into my ozone. ==ORH===
Ozone Installations
Posted by Robert Henry (Ten Mile, Tn) on 02/02/2017
HI U ANNE,,,,,,,,, spent lots of time in Houston in the '70s on engineering projects. Being a hick, the interstate loop put me in the top of a tall pine tree. The women would pass me doing 90 mph and looking into the rear view mirror putting on their lipstick. I was white knuckled holding on to the steering wheel.
My dad had bladder cancer and I'm sure he would have been cured with the protocol you describe. I just got an e mail from Dr Shellenberger asking for spider vein volunteers to undergo an ozone treatment to address that problem. He has successfully cured 4 of his patients. Ozone is wonderful, but only about 16 states allow it's use. I just did an ozone ear insulflation this morning after my IFR sauna. Years ago we bought a medical Ozone generator from Longevity. It cost about $3,400 but keeps us perking. We have the equipment to do anal and vagina insulflation and suspect that you could do the protocol you did at home. You would just have to have the smarts.
Folks may think they cannot afford an Ozone Generator but my truck is 17 years old and instead of driving a new truck every 3 years I spend that money on health toys. All should too.
Thank you for your enlightening post.
======ORH=======
Ozone Installations
Posted by Julie F. (Houston ) on 03/22/2017
Anne, I live in Houston an am in need of a doctor to help me with IC. Can you please tell me who you saw for the ozone treatments? Thank you!
Pumpkin Seed Oil
Posted by Lynn (United States) on 10/13/2020
Has anyone else tried this?
Diatomaceous Earth
Posted by Kimberly (Ca) on 09/30/2015
Regarding Diatomaceous Earth and Interstitial Cystitis - I have IC something awful. Bed ridden and house bound but I am concerned the little jagged edges will hurt my bladder even more. I am in constant flare.
Diatomaceous Earth
Posted by Lisa (Yucca Valley) on 11/18/2016
Hello my friend,
You have Vulvodynia, a chronic pain syndrome that affects the vulvar tissue. I suffered with this for 3 yrs in the late 1990s. It is oxalate crystals in your urine that cause the stabbing pain to the vulva tissue. You must eat a low oxalate diet eliminating all foods high in oxalate. You must drink lots of liquids like cherry juice or water or apple cider. There are others look to the low oxalate diet alternatives. Buy Calcium Citrate with no additives. Figure out the times of the day when your pain is highest and take 500 or 750 mg of calcium citrate on an empty stomach with 8 or 10 oz of water. The calcium citrate will return the urine to a normal ph over time. Get a vegetable laxative you will get severe constipation from the calcium citrate so you must take laxatives. You can take a warm bath with some apple cider vinegar to relieve the pain. No soaps or harsh chemicals to the area. Get on an anti depressant now to be able to better manage or cope with this horrible pain. I have Vulvadynia again probably it came back as I had a first time ever yeast infection or it's heredity and stress plays a role in chronic pain conditions. You will get better. Look to the Vulvar pain foundation for support. There are about 2 million women who suffer from Vulvadynia you are not alone. You can also try biofeedback to the pelvic muscle. Stay away from too many Doctors as they don't know what's wrong and may give you topical treatments to the vagina which will make it worse and or antibiotics which will not help. They'll think because of a white odor colorless discharge that doesn't test positive for yeast it's still a yeast infection and treat as such. This will set back your recovery and you don't need that stress. Let me know how you're feeling, I pray you get well soon and you will but you must follow the regimen I have explained it's the only cure.
Diatomaceous Earth
Posted by Paula (PA) on 09/26/2023
Hi Lisa,
I'm interested in what you said about vulvodinia. Could you elaborate on what your symptoms were. I thought I had ic but I have no pain like a UTI. I do have pressure and an odd sensation that is quite annoying. Does this sound like what you experienced?
Thank you.
Antibiotics
Posted by Diamond (Ma.) on 04/16/2015
I went to way too many doctors, for what they felt absolutely sure, I too had an infection, the Drs. continued to treat me, when months went by with still the itching, burning and strong foul smell. I went to a specialist in Boston, Ma. and found I have a mold virus where antibiotics is a derivative of a mold compound hence it made matters worse, and my problem not only worsened but continued on into two years of pure hell and pain, antibiotics eventually break down the immune system. Instead of running another risk of mistaken illnesses, I will continue to do herbs. I appreciate your better part of advice and so happy it worked for you. God Bless you.
Antibiotics
Posted by Serendipity (Christi) on 12/12/2023
The doctors she is recommending are holistic as well as the supplements.
Dietary Changes
Posted by Faith (Pdx) on 12/20/2014
★★★★☆
My line of thinking is something is causing interstitial cystitis a possible food allergy. I read that there are two possible reasons one is the bacteria is in hiding in the lining of the bladder which does not show up in a urinalysis the other cause may be interstitial cystitis is from ureaplasma you need a doctor run the test they will not find an infectious disease MD the other cause may be infection of the paraurethral glands, or a bladder infection in which the bacteria have gone inside the bladder lining, and cannot be detected in a urine sample. See a specialist and get treated.
D-Mannose, Dietary Changes
Posted by Cindy (Usa) on 03/11/2014
To mike from Denver I was wondering how you make a fermented product from organic flour? could you give us the recipe? Thanks. I am learning how to ferment things. A lot of trial and error so far. Thanks
D-Mannose, Dietary Changes
Posted by Mike62 (Denver) on 03/11/2014
Cindy: Dormant kefir grains cost $10 shipped at Amazon. Put them in 1 pint drinking water, 35g organic whole flour or 30g organic whole sugar, and let brew at room temp away from direct sunlight for approximately 4 days. 80 degrees is ideal. Sites say that kefir is delicate. The opposite is true. They are very hardy. They have been alive for longer than marine phyto plankton. I have fermented them from 50 to 100 degrees. The farther away from 80 the slower the brew. Periodically taste the water. The taste goes from water, to slightly sour, to sour, to vinegary. When sour they are fully awake. They do not like metal like spoons or strainers. Most people make theirs from sugar. Sugar costs more and does not have any protein or fiber. Some of the microbes end up in the water so they repopulate the digestive tract. The dosage is 60g sugar or 75g flour per quart drinking water. The flour is more because it has protein and fiber. Over many decades of experimentation by many people the right dose for carbs is 6%. 1 quart has 1000g water so 6% would be 60g carbs. I consider kefir to be the best remedy. The microbes change food that has more protons than electrons to fertilizer that has more electrons than protons. There is a lot more energy from 1 quart of kefir than in 75g of flour. The microbes change matter into energy. After making the 1 pint you can increase the dosage for the following batches.
Lyme Disease Caused IC
Posted by Sunny (Los Angeles, Ca) on 04/13/2013
Evelyn from Singapore!!! Thank you for ur Hope you have given us! <3 that this can be cured. What did the Doctor do? Ex Antibiotics? What is the Nurses name? Please give us all the information you can. Thanks! <3
Cayenne
Posted by Shampoo (Los Angeles, California) on 06/28/2012
I also want to add that, its been 4 days on the zinthromax, or erythmycin, and I feel great, but I still have some pain, and I will be returning to my urologist in a week to get retested and hopefully get on long term antibiotics, as I've read thats what most people end up having to do with IC. So, now I KNOW this is an infection from a Bacteria, since I wasn't sure whether I had a damaged bladder or what?? A few more things about essential oil. Ive stopped that, as I wasnt getting over the hump, and it seemed to be very harsh on my body, but I was reading alot about BIOFILMS. Ureaplasma is considered a biofilm infection, by the way. Please learn and google this guys. In a research study, they tested 15 different essential oils, in breaking down Biofilms. Of the 15 only 4 broke the biofilms, of stubborn bacteria, and that is Tea tree, Eucalyptus, Palmarosa, and Rosemary.
Also, Ureaplasma is linked to miscarriage, and infertilty, which would explain my failure to conceive over the last 3 years. Like 50% of couples failing to conceive, looking for in vitro fertilization tested positive for this bacteria. But then AGAIN. Many people have this. Its just some people seem to have real problems with it, as it is SO LINKED to IC. Maybe some people's bodies dont like it, as one girl I read on a forum said. Ive also added coconut water to my regime. As I read some people cured bladder infections with it. It also makes your skin glow :))
Cayenne
Posted by Drumchild (Los Angeles, Ca) on 11/22/2013
Wow. Would u suggest to do the doxy for ureaplasma agani? I'm scared ..as u sounded like it was really hard on your body!
Thank you.
Aloe Vera
Posted by Gianna (Costa Mesa, Ca) on 04/20/2012
★☆☆☆☆
I started using freeze dried aloe vera capsules for my mild IC, which I have had for 10 years now and can't seem to find a remedy :( Anyhow, I took 2 capsules 3x a day and I really didn't see any signs of improvement.
ACI-JEL
Posted by Sueb (Potsdam, New York Usa) on 01/03/2013
To ALi from AUstraila, could you PLEASE tell me what kind of mild antibacterial cream you used. is it specifically for the vagina or intercourse? Thank you.
Multiple Remedies
Posted by Lisadeb (Edina, Mn) on 01/28/2012
1/28/212: Female age 48 IC 6 yrs, CFS 20yrs (less w/no sugar, all gone w/no gluten last yr), IBS 20yrs (gluten free last yr pretty much stopped this), Fibro 12yrs (3/4 less since off gluten) Now also on IC diet. Must be strict. Claritin helps. Fem-Dophilis (vaginally helps). Researched HGH 20 yrs ago and amino acids caused Gastro Issues, so could not take. No $ for Real HGH.
Jan 3 2012: I started HGH homeopathic "Vital HGH" and bioidentical estrogen and progesterone for my IC and other health problems. (2 squirts 3Xday of HGH)... So far the only changes are sleeping deeper and lots of dream recall, and able to fall back to sleep after peeing 4-6 times/night (I was in bed 9.5 hrs/night due to insomnia, now down to 9) . My fibro is much less. Feel less "hopeless" now because I can now take Cysta-Q (trying 2/day) when before I got really HOT at night taking it and had a stomachache, so quit (Same w/just Querctin and CystaProtec. ). Estrogen is helping the HOT at night problem also. Been on Cysta-Q for 2 wks. No real change yet. Energy is higher during the day, and can exercise more often. I feel this is a dramatic change. Lost 2 lbs of belly fat w/out trying. (I am 126 lbs now, 5'4") I will try to update again if anything changes. If it doesn't, I will not. :-)
Multiple Remedies
Posted by Gins (Los Angeles) on 08/27/2020
What medications in your instills?
Multiple Remedies
Posted by Laura (Ontario) on 09/27/2022
What is HGH?
EC: Human Growth Hormone.
Cinnamon
Posted by Ichater (Northern, California Usa) on 01/19/2012
★☆☆☆☆
Prior to the worst flare up in my life, I had already been taking cinnamon capsules daily for a year prior... So I don't think that cinnamon works for everyone. I was taking 1000 mg a day and I still had a flare up. :/
Baking Soda
Posted by Shampoo (Los Angeles, California) on 05/28/2012
★☆☆☆☆
Doesnt work. I did a half teaspoon every 2 hours with a ton of water for two days and it did NOTHING for me except made me sick. Absolutely nothing, and baking soda can be dangerous in large amounts.
Baking Soda
Posted by Plumhappy (Eugene, Oregon) on 07/23/2012
Am curious with that much pain, are you following the diet precribed for IC, ie. Avoiding high acid foods, etc. I have IC and as long as I leave the offending foods alone and take MSM, I experience no pain, occassional "sensation" for lack of better term.
Multiple Remedies
Posted by Jessica (Matawan , NJ) on 11/22/2014
Hi Kimberly , I know the last time you posted was in 2011. And you mentioned the oxytrol patch really worked for you. What is your condition like now? I have IC , bladder spasms etc. I have tried everything and been to million Drs. this week has been so brutal for me. I want to try oxytrol because I know if at least my bladder could calm down I can heal. Do you have any more advice?
Aloe Vera
Posted by Pinklight (New Orleans, Louisiana) on 06/16/2011
I am interested to know if anyone has used a special aloe vera formula for ic available from two particular companies that are online. These aloe capsules are formulated specifically and takes 2-3 months to cure, not treat ic. Both companies have the word "harvest" in them.
-Pinklight
Aloe Vera
Posted by Renae (Hastings, Mn) on 09/02/2011
★☆☆☆☆
http://www.buzzle.com/articles/side-effects-of-using-aloe-vera.html
Don't listen to "aloe has no side effects" Not true.
I have tried the Harvest Aloe. Severe gas, gut ache. Not everyone can use it. They give you a sample of 6 pills for free. 1/8 th of one pill gives me severe problems. Can't use. I have a history of IBS. I eat no sugar, gluten, dairy, alcholol due to IBS.
Many people are helped according to their website. Not me.
Aloe Vera
Posted by Shampoo (Los Angeles, California) on 05/28/2012
Ok, Ive read Aloe Vera doesnt really work per se, but you need the concentrated freeze dried Aloe Vera from Desert Lily or something, I forget the name. Its expensive, but worth it, I guess, Ive heard of women being able to return to work, by taking 3 to 4 pills a day. Also, Colostrum, along with other herbal supplements(marshmallow root, quercitine, etc) has put some people in remission. One lady I read, buys MSM powder every month, and takes quit a bit thru out the day, and it takes care of the pain 75%. You can either put it in empty Gel caps, or take it in water or juice. Also, Turmeric is supposed to be very helpful. Several caps a day.
Ok, I thought I had Interstitial Cystitus, and since Im very prone to UTI's and I get them all the time, I finally did some kind of damage to my bladder from all the infections, or the cures, cuz I take vitamin c and drink apple cidar vinegar like its my job, and I figured I burnt my bladder lining or something, anywhoo....
My conclusion is that this maybe, perhaps, most probably, in many cases (not all), interstitial cystitus is an infection of some kind, that wont go away for whatever reason. The ecoli, has embedded itself in your bladder lining or something. Cuz I started taking essential oils, and it got 85% better.
Try Thieves oil, 3 drops a day, every day for a month. Its expensive, but im planning on buying it next month, since Ive used other oils with success, and Ive read great things online about it.
Aloe Vera
Posted by Laurie (Alberta) on 08/25/2021
You may never check this but I wonder how you use the Thieves essential oil as it is not to be taken internally?
Aloe Vera
Posted by Janice (Mn) on 11/19/2023
Put on the roof of your mouth, done this many times
