elmhar

Hi BG,

Are you doing an IC diet? No alcohol, caffeine, tomatoes, spices, chocolate, citrus or high-acid foods unless proven OK by dietary elimination & challenge?

An acquaintance of mine was pretty much disabled by IC until she discovered her triggers were peppers (even sweet bell peppers) and artificial sweeteners.

Biopsises of bladders of IC sufferers show that some, but not all, do have extensive mast cell infiltration -- suggesting that allergy (like food allergy) may contribute in some cases.

The bicarb water/avoid high acid/alkalize your body is a recurring theme. But sometimes IC is complicated by frequent infections ... a certain amt of acidity keeps the infections down.

My DD took a class at college where 2 physical therapists spoke about successful treatment of IC by doing pelvic floor trigger point release. This is useful where the pain has a nerve-related cause.

I've heard that in some cases, there can be a hormonal imbalance that contributes to IC ... not sure which way, probably estro related?

Best wishes.