IC Belly - HELP!!!

[bcmcd11]

I was recently diagnosed with IC in late March, 2011. Since then I have looked like I'm about 4-5 months pregnant. I am always being asked when my baby is due. I am absolutely MISERABLE. The belly is ALWAYS there. It doesn't seem to matter if I'm having a flare or not. None of my clothes fit me anymore, and I have had to resort to wearing maternity clothes. I am only 5 feet tall, so just a little bloating makes me look huge. I am EXTREMELY depressed and have no idea if there is anything I can do about my IC Belly. I am being treated with all of the typical IC medications, plus medicine for depression, and large weekly doses of Vitamin D. Is there anyone out there who can give me some advise? I need to hear more than just, "Are you on the IC Diet?", because it just doesn't seem to be working for me. Any advise would be GREATLY appreciated. Thanks!

Age: 39
Medicines: Elmiron, Hydroxyzine, Amytryptiline, Norco 325/5 mg for pain, Prescription Potassium pills, Microgestin FE (birth control), Vitamin D, Uribel, Prelief, Cystoprotek, Risperdal (depression), Adderal (hyperactivity), an occasional Tramadol for pain

[Grinch]

I know how you feel. I am under five feet and barely a 100 lbs. I always look 3-6 months pregnant. People constantly ask me when I am due. My students are always asking me questions. Sometimes I ignore people and sometimes I spin elaborate tales about a baby I am not having. In some ways it is pathetic and in some ways it can be funny. I cant wait for the day when I can actually give a due date and it actually is a real due date.

[carried_cub]

Hi there! I'm sorry you are having such a time with your abdomen swelling. I think if you look around on the site some more you will find a lot of advice. Some people use ice, and some use heat, and some find once they've been in treatment for awhile the inflammation gradually subsides. My PT is always patting my tummy and telling me how much inflammation and fluid retention she feels even if you can't see it. She even suggested I see a lymphedema massage therapist. A big chunk of mine turned out to be gut problems and PMS problems--and you know those two plus your bladder will happily irritate each other in a cycle. In addition to your IC treatments, you might think about taking extra care of your GI. My bladder would anger my colon would anger whatever it felt like, if that makes sense. For me, that equals puffing up. If you take a look at the treatments for IBS discussed on here (probiotics, peppermint oil and the like) you can get some IC-friendly ideas. I also have a wedge I use to elevate my backside.

I hope you feel better. Hang in there!

[Briza]

IC bellly was a HUGE problem of mine-haha Anyway, I never did find relief for it other than cold packs. Actually it was more of a problem the first two or three years that I had symptoms than it was later on, I don't know why. Maybe following the IC diet or possibly some of my meds helped with the inflammation, which I believe causes the swelling.

I have heard here of a FEW having success with antihistamines for this symptom, particulary Atarax. So maybe that is something to try?

[canadian daisy]

I don't have any advice for you, as I too am relativley new at this but I wanted you to know that you're not alone. I too have this issue and compounded with my spine, colon and gyno problems I am poofy..BIG poofy. It IS depressing! It sucks. Just wanted you to know you're not alone and I'm miserable as well. Sending you BIG BIG Hugs!!