HomeAnswersPain Medicineinterstitial cystitisWill Opiates be helpful in interstitial cystitis?

I have interstitial cystitis and my flares have gotten worse. How to get rid of it?

Share

The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Sneha Kannan

Published At September 3, 2020
Reviewed AtSeptember 15, 2023

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I was diagnosed with IC over a year ago, and at first, the pain was manageable. Now, my flares have gotten worse, especially during my cycle. I have pelvic pain, back pain, and urethral pain, all of which are five times worse during periods. I have been working with my urogynecologist with bladder instillation and my primary doctor for medications. My physician has given me Amitriptyline, Hyoscyamine, and Ibuprofen. None of this touches the pressure pain that I am having during my menstruation. I have tried yoga, physical therapy, and lots of other non-medical treatments. When is the appropriate time to discuss using Opiates during this time of the month for flares? I know it is a sensitive subject, but I have tried all the alternative therapies. This seems like the only logical step, and I know that doctors are too scared to prescribe Opiates because of their side effects. As they are still expected to relieve pain, I would need a small amount to get me through my monthly cycle flares. Do pain management doctors see IC patients? I am a 33-year-old female, and I weigh 240 lbs. I also have other gynecological issues, such as a history of fibroids. Some have been removed, with current ones growing. I would greatly appreciate any advice or help.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I feel sorry about your health condition. Interstitial cystitis is a chronic bladder condition that causes recurring bouts of pain and pressure in the bladder and pelvic area, often accompanied by an urgent and frequent need to urinate. There is no exact cause for it. Different theories are proposed, but the exact one is not known. Avoid caffeinated drinks and alcohol. Avoid citrus fruits and chemical irritants. Every individual responds differently to a treatment. NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) may be useful to relieve pain. Along with that, Tramadol 50 mg, thrice a day after food, may alleviate pain. Regular exercise and yoga also relieve symptoms. Continue Amitriptyline to reduce pain. Cyclosporine and bladder instillation with normal saline or potassium-containing solutions may give relief. Still, if the symptoms do not improve, please consult with your urologist. He will examine and treat you accordingly.

Thank you.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Penchilaprasad Kandikattu
Dr. Penchilaprasad Kandikattu

Internal Medicine

Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Pain Medicine

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy