Interstitial Cystitis Causes & Risks

Causes

Because bacteria, fungi, or viruses are rarely found in the urine of people with interstitial cystitis, the cause is unclear. Possible causes include:

An autoimmune response that occurs following a bacterial infection of the bladder
Bacteria that cling too tightly to the wall of the bladder
A "leaky" inner lining of the bladder that allows irritating substances in the urine to come into contact with the bladder wall

Risk Factors

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition. Risk factors for interstitial cystitis include:

Sex: female to male ratio 9:1
Race: Caucasians 90%
Genetics: higher rate in first degree relatives
Stress
Associated psychological disorders: fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome
History of childhood bladder problems

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