Irritable Bladder Syndrome

What is Irritable Bladder Syndrome?
Irritable bladder syndrome, also known as interstitial cystitis or painful bladder syndrome, while a condition of an unknown cause, is a urinary condition linked to an overstressed or overactive immune system. Symptoms include the need for frequent urination, as well as pain and burning sensations while urinating. Approximately 90% of all people that suffer from irritable bladder syndrome are women, and circumstances that create a greater risk for the condition include having a history of gynecological surgeries, chronic urinary tract infections, and a correlating condition of irritable bowel syndrome, lupus, or allergies. Western treatments include anti-inflammatory medications and oral antihistamines.

How can I treat Irritable Bladder Syndrome?
Because irritable bladder syndrome is linked to malfunctions of the immune system, the traditional Chinese medicine approach to the condition is to identify what dietary, emotional, environmental, and lifestyle factors are contributing to the condition. Treatment includes a diet that favors bland forms of food preparation. This includes a diet of vegetables, such as carrots and celery, fruit, such as strawberries and watermelon, whole grains, such as millet and oats, and fish. Other remedies include drinking corn silk tea during flare-ups and taking hot baths with Epsom salt for temporary pain relief. One can reduce stress and strengthen immune function by practicing tai chi or qi gong.

What should I avoid in my lifestyle for Irritable Bladder Syndrome?
It is important to avoid simple sugars, soft drinks, sweetened juices, dairy products, hot and spicy foods, and highly acidic foods like tomatoes and citrus fruits. There may be other substances that will need to be removed through a trial-and-error process, including alcohol, spices, chocolate, and caffeine. Other things to avoid include stress, anger, and smoking.


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This entry was posted in Conditions, Natural Health Dictionary.