Interstitial Cystitis Treatment in Las Vegas, NV

Dr. Grigoriev is a urogynecologist in Las Vegas, dedicated to enhancing the lives of patients through his expertise in the treatment of Interstitial Cystitis. At our urogynecology clinic in Las Vegas, Dr. Grigoriev offers a personalized and compassionate approach to managing the challenges of this condition. With a deep understanding of the physical and emotional impact of interstitial cystitis, he combines his experience with the latest advancements in the field to provide comprehensive and effective treatment options. If you’re looking for an area expert in the treatment of interstitial cystitis then request your appointment online today or call 702-233-0727.

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What Is Cystitis?

Cystitis refers to the inflammation of the bladder, often triggered by a bladder infection. This condition is a prevalent form of urinary tract infection (UTI), particularly among women, and is typically more of an inconvenience than a matter of grave concern.

What Are the Symptoms of Interstitial Cystitis?

The symptoms of interstitial cystitis can vary for each patient, but these are among most common symptoms reported by patients with IC:

• Pressure or pain in the bladder that often becomes worse as the bladder fills.
• Lower abdomen, lower back, or pelvic pain can also be felt by some patients. The pain can range from intermittent to constant.
• Frequent urination is an early sign of interstitial cystitis, and is characterized as urinating more than 7 times per day and/or waking up to go in the middle of the night.
• The urgency to urinate may never go away for some patients, even after urinating.

Who Is at Risk for Interstitial Cystitis?

The exact cause of interstitial cystitis is unknown, but there are several risk factors that could increase an individual’s chances of developing this condition, including:

• Gender is a major contributing factor as 90% of patients with Interstitial cystitis are women. When men experience symptoms of IC, they are typically linked to prostate gland inflammation.
• The age of patients who are diagnosed with IC tends to be 40 or older.
• A defect in the bladder’s lining can allow an irritating substance to affect the bladder.
• Chronic pain disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome or fibromyalgia have been associated with interstitial cystitis.

How IC Is Diagnosed

There is no test that can definitively determine whether interstitial cystitis is or is not present. Dr. Grigoriev will determine whether the patient’s symptoms are consistent with IC, and will then order routine examinations to ensure that other health issues are not causing these symptoms. A physical and neurological evaluation may also be performed. The physical exam will consist of an assessment of the abdomen and organs in the pelvic area. The neurological exam will be performed to rule out any potential mental health or anxiety disorders that could be causing the patient’s symptoms.

Treatment Options in Las Vegas, NV

Symptoms can take weeks or even months to improve and the issue may never be completely cured. The treatment of interstitial cystitis will begin with minimally invasive measures and escalate progressively if symptoms are not improving:

First Phase: Home & Lifestyle Treatment

Dr. Grigoriev may recommend some simple lifestyle changes including a change of diet, bladder retraining (holding urine for longer and longer periods of time to regain muscle control,) low-impact exercises and wearing looser clothing.

Second Phase: Prescription Medication

If lifestyle changes are unable to control the patient’s symptoms, medications to calm the bladder may be prescribed. These medications can be taken orally, or can be placed into the bladder directly through a catheter.

Third Phase: Injections

Injecting small amounts of Botox can help to paralyze the bladder muscles that are inflicting any pain, and can also alleviate symptoms.

Fourth Phase – Cyclosporine

The medication is infrequently used because of its immune system lowering effects. All patients should thoroughly discuss the risks of this option with Dr. Grigoriev.

Fifth Phase: Surgery

Surgery is reserved for patients who have tried the first four phases of treatment and have achieved a significant improvement in their symptoms.