Recently Diagnosed

[kirsten11]

Hi everyone. I'm 24 years old and I've recently been diagnosed with IC. The past year has been really stressful for me and I can tell that it's really exacerbated my symptoms. Does anyone have any tips for dealing with stress as they relate to flare ups? Also, how does one explain this condition to their spouse? I've tried talking to my husband about it, but I'm not sure that he fully understands it. I'm just at a loss for what to do right now.

[ICNDonna]

I'm so sorry about your diagnosis. I know that at first it can be very stressful; and if there are other stresses to deal with, it's even worse.

If you click on the Patient Information link in my signature below, you'll find a lot of printable material you can give your husband to read --- or you can read it and find some different ways to communicate so he will understand better. It can be hard when someone we love has been diagnosed with something that's not currently curable.

Once you are on an IC diet for a while and have found some treatments that work for you, you will feel better --- almost all of us do.

Sending warm healing thoughts,
Donna

[Mothergoose]

my husband has taken a long time to start to get IC, it seems to run in his family big time, anytime anyone is sick with anyone in the family, they all seem to denie it or really play it down.

i tried reading info out to him, i played him utube video's, jill has quite a few really good ones, with her you know you are going to get current up to date info, in an easy to understand language.

what has helpped some is for me is he has started to come to my Dr's app when he can and my Dr tells him it is all real not in my head, and I definately needs the meds I am on.

I have actually asked my Dr. things to explain it to him, the retention and what it means to my health, IC, VV, IBS, etc. not all atthe same time but as things arise.

I also get himto explain meds as they are tried, this has helpped my husband understand things better. althoughhe denies ever not believing, I guess now he just gives it more credence.

It is hard for people to get IC as you can't see it, and all the things that go with it.

Good luck this is a comman problem for a lot of ICer's

[greeneyes]

My husband has been very understanding for the most part, he does however get alittle angry when I tell him NO I can't ride the bikes this weekend. I once asked him do you know what an ulcer in your mouth feels like, image the burning and pain 10 times more, he really hasn't said much since. So maybe if you find something to use as an example it will help him understand.