Recently Diagnosed & Need Suggestions

[mst263]

I was diagnosed with IC in January after being in pain for 8 years and having many negative UTI cultures. My GYN referred me to an UroGYN who performed a cystoscopy and distention of bladder. These tests confirmed the diagnosis and he prescribed Elmiron, Urocit-K, Elavil and Prelif. I am glad to finally having a diagnosis, but is still a little frustrated. I love water, but drinking it all the time is boring! Also, I thought I will lose weight by following the IC diet, (I do cheat once in a while), but I am gaining weight because I believe the Elavil is increasing my appetite. I still have flares eventhough I am
trying so hard to do the right thing! I had to reduce my work hours because it is exhausting running back and forth to the bathroom all day as if you have diarrhea. Also, when I do sit for more than 30 mins I have to get up SLOWLY because I have pain and/or spasms in my lower abdomen. I am thankful that my UroGYN is sending me to a female Physical Therapist who specializes in Pelvic Floor Dysfunction. Hopefully, she will help me strengthen my pelvic muscles. I need to see the light at the end of the tunnel.

[mst263]

I am on 25 mg of Elavil. I will try chamomile and mint tea. Thank you!

[kadi]

Hi mst
I did experience appetite increases at 20mg of Elavil, you are not alone.
I've found that if I increase my vegetables & eat whole grains it controls it a little better. I also try to have sweets only after dinner because if I start eating them during the day, I want them all day long.
For beverages other than water:
1. Blueberry juice (I dilute it & take a calcium citrate with it because it's high in oxalates)
2. Pear juice (I get Looza brand or Hero brand from a health food or specialty grocery store)
3. Peppermint tea (nothing in it except peppermint)
4. Rooibos tea (I got one with vanilla & cream in it, delicious! I make it weak & dilute with milk & sugar)
5. Cinnamon tea (Mexican tea - just cinnamon sticks boiled)
6. Low acid decaf coffee made in the Toddy Maker (reduces acid even further)-Puroast house blend decaf low acid coffee, toddy maker & toddy maker filters all available in the ICN store linked at the top of the page. I also dilute this coffee with ice, milk & sugar.
7. Pear juice mixed with carrot juice

Welcome to the ICN! It does get easier over time, hang in there....