Discuss lifestyle changes that may help provide patients with symptom relief
Dietary Modifications
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A wide range of foods have been reported to trigger symptom flares in IC patients2,3
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Avoiding these foods or beverages may help provide symptom relief (eg, coffee and spicy or citrus foods)2,3
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Try to determine which foods or beverages affect symptoms and avoid them in the diet2,3
Download dietary modifications information sheet
Stress-reduction and relaxation techniques
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Patients can manage stress-induced symptom exacerbations through techniques such as2
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Controlled breathing exercises
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Applying warm or cold compresses on the lower abdomen
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Utilize support groups4
Physical therapy
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Certain exercises can resolve pelvic, abdominal, and/or hip muscular trigger points, and lengthen muscle contractures2,5,6
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Gentle stretching and pelvic floor muscle relaxation
Bladder training with urge suppression
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Practice scheduled voiding patterns to gradually increase time between voids2,4,6