Treating IC Symptoms Overview
* The first step in treatment of any chronic condition is a natural cleanse and revitalization of bodily systems. FlorEssence or Essiac tea is taken for 3 months to relieve pain and revitalize body functions (thyroid, adrenals, immune system).
* Bladder infections are both a causative factor in IC and a result of IC. Identifying a true bladder infection as opposed to painful IC symptoms is accomplished using PH paper. If the PH paper indicates a bladder infection, antibiotics may be needed but should be kept to a minimum. Take precautionary measures against recurrent bladder infections. Keep inflammation under control, improve immune system function and stimulate lymphatic system.
* The IC bladder can go into painful spasms that trigger an escalating immune and inflammatory reaction resulting in intense pain. Understanding what triggers bladder spasms and preventing them is an important step in getting pain under control. Painful spasms can be treated and/or prevented with flexible magnets, plant sterols, Essiac tea, topical DMSO, ice, Chinese herbs and pumpkin oil.
* Allergies are a major factor in IC and must be consistently managed. Mast cell degranulation causes allergic reactions, damage to the GAG layer and painful symptoms of IC. Several supplements manage allergies including those containing bromelain, quercetin, aloe vera, chondroitin sulfate and MSM.
* IC bladders have an excess of pain causing nerve endings. Supplements that calm overactive nerves alleviate pain. They include a Chinese herb formula (Calm Down), lobelia herb, blue vervain herb and hops. Flexible magnets applied over the bladder help alleviate nerve pain.
* Temporary replacement of the damaged GAG layer provides relief of IC symptoms. Aloe vera, glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin sulfate will temporarily coat the GAG layer.
* Inflammation and an overactive inflammatory response to a minor insult are major causes of IC symptoms. Keeping inflammation under control helps alleviate painful symptoms and promotes healing. Plant sterols, 714X, topical DMSO, corn silk, cat’s claw, bromelain and quercetin are helpful in managing inflammation.
* Some healing of scar tissue in the bladder is possible with topical DMSO, treatment of allergies and management of inflammation and infections.
* Congested lymph and a sluggish lymphatic system may lead to IC and exacerbate IC symptoms. Thinning the lymphatic fluid and revitalizing the lymphatic system will improve the immune response, reduce pain, reduce inflammation and promote healing of infections. 714X is the best product for lymphatic stimulation along with Essiac tea.