Unfortunately, there is no single test to determine whether or not a person has interstitial cystitis (IC). But, by working with your doctor it is possible to get the right diagnosis. Your doctor must first rule out other conditions that may be causing your symptoms, including bladder cancer. To do that, there are a few things your doctor may explore.

• Review Your Medical History
  Information about your medical history may provide important insights into what may be causing your symptoms. Some typical things your doctor will ask about are any medications you're currently taking, any allergies you may have, and any medical problems or conditions you may have.
  
  
• Explain and Track Your Current Symptoms
  It's very important to communicate the symptoms you are currently experiencing to your doctor, along with their severity and when they flare up. An easy and helpful way to track your symptoms is to keep a Symptom Journal and to share it with your doctor.
  
  
• Conduct Diagnostic Tests
  Several diagnostic tests may be used to help your doctor identify the exact cause of your symptoms. Here are two that your doctor may conduct:
  
  

1. Urinalysis and urine culture:
   These tests can detect and identify the most common bacteria that infect the urine and that may cause symptoms similar to those of IC. Organisms such as chlamydia, however, cannot be detected through these methods, so a negative culture does not rule out all types of infection. After a clean urine sample is collected, it is tested.
   
   White and red blood cells and bacteria in the urine may indicate an infection of the urinary tract, which can be treated with an antibiotic. But if urine is sterile for weeks or months while symptoms persist, the doctor may consider a diagnosis of IC.
   
   
2. Potassium Sensitivity Test
   The Potassium Sensitivity Test (PST), also known as the potassium chloride (KCl) instillation test, can detect problems with the bladder's protective lining (epithelium). In this test, potassium chloride is placed into the bladder. If the patient feels pain and/or the urge to urinate during the test, it is considered a positive sign that the bladder lining is not protected. And IC may be the cause.
   
   Most patients with IC respond positively to the PST; however, a small percentage of patients with IC have a negative result, and the reason for this is not known.

NEXT: IC Self Screener