If you are one of more than 700,000 American who suffers from interstitial cystitis (IC), you probably know its symptoms of recurring bladder pain and other discomforts can have a devastating impact on the quality of life—for both you and your family. Often misdiagnosed, IC sufferers are routinely put through a battery of unfamiliar tests, prescribed a variety of medications, or even encouraged to have surgical interventions.If you’ve experienced the medical system runaround or live in dread of your next IC flare-up, The Interstitial Surcvival Guide offers both real help and hope. This self-care guide is designed to uncomplicate the process and empower you to make sure you are getting the most appropriate treatment for your condition. Dr. Robert Moldwin, director of the Interstitial Cystitis Center in Long Island, NY, helps you: Gain a clear understanding of what IC is and how it’s diagnosed Evaluate the latest medications and their side effects Make informed decisions about surgery and other treatment options Learn the latest, most up-to-date medical, nonmedical, and alternative strategies for managing and reducing symptoms