< previous page | page_34 | next page >
Page 34
| To quote the ICF: |
| Interstitial Cystitis is generally caused by a chronic inflammation of the bladder wall and produces symptoms that wax and wane. Scientists aren't certain what triggers the inflammatory process; suspects include previous infections; unidentified substances in the urine; defects in the cells lining the bladder; disorders of nerve functions; activation of mast cells, which play an important role in allergic reactions; or a combination of these factors. Whatever the cause, the affected bladder wall is hypersensitive to stimulation, and the presence of even a small amount of urine causes it to contract. As a result, discomfort is almost constant during flares of interstitial cystitis; pain and pressure are relieved only temporarily after responding to each urge to urinate. |
| Although the condition can appear out of the blue in people who have had no urinary problems, it is more likely to occur in those who have endured several bouts with bladder disease. An estimated 70 percent of women with interstitial cystitis have a history of urinary tract infections and many report having had childhood bladder problems. |
| Treatment Philosophy |
| Since interstitial cystitis is not a specific disease entity deriving from specific causes but an end result, like arthritis, that can be reached through many pathways, the best holistic approach is to first strengthen the metabolism through tonics and then start using specific therapeutics until something works . . . trial and error. It is very likely that an approach that helps now may gradually stop working in a few months, so having several approaches is preferable. Using herbs alone is less beneficial than combining |
< previous page | page_34 | next page >

If you like this book, buy it!