Interstitial cystitis

[Guest Posts]

I have interstitial cystitis (possibly as a result of Fibromyalgia). I have to omit many fruits, caffeine, coffee and probiotics from my diet as they all inflame it. Is there anything natural I can take to help with the symptoms or for the health of my bladder? I'm not keen on taking prescribed medication every day due to the side effects. (Nicola)

[Mr Chris Harding]

I am not aware of any "natural" remedies which have robust data to support their use. Many are tested on small numbers and using poor methods to demonstrate effectiveness. I would recommend a patient support group such as bladder health UK - you tend to get a very truthful opinion from these sites but as a medical practitioner all i can say is that many lack a proper evidence base.