I have chronic Interstitial Cystitis (disease of the lining of the bladder)and it is very painful. I also suffer from depression. I have been on disability for 2 years now. I miss working, but unless they can find a cure for "IC" I will never be able to work again. However,I am blessed to have a great husband and 2 wonderful teenage kids.
What is Interstitial Cystitis:
Interstitial cystitis (IC), also known as painful bladder syndrome or bladder pain syndrome, is a condition that results in recurring discomfort or pain in the bladder and the surrounding pelvic region. The symptoms can vary greatly between individuals and even for the same person throughout the month, including an urgent need to urinate (urgency), a frequent need to urinate (frequency) and, for some, pressure and/or pelvic pain. People with severe cases of IC/PBS may urinate as many as 60 times a day, including frequent nighttime urination (nocturia).
Pain levels can range from mild tenderness to intense, agonizing pain. Pain typically worsens as the bladder fills and is then relieved after urination. Pain may also radiate to the lower back and upper legs. Women's symptoms may fluctuate with their menstrual cycle, often flaring during ovulation and/or just before their periods. Men and women may experience discomfort during or after intimate relations. During flares, patients may also experience the “IC Belly,” a sudden and random swelling of the lower abdomen.
Happiness keeps you sweet , trials keep you strong, sorrows keep you human, failures keep you humble, success keeps you glowing, but only GOD keeps you going.