Showing posts with label News. Show all posts
Showing posts with label News. Show all posts

11.11.2009

The IC Chef in ICA Update

I am so excited to share that the blog was featured in the fall 2009 issue of the ICA Update.

The ICA Update is a quarterly magazine that covers current trends, tips, recipes, and anything someone with IC might want to know.

This particular issue is all about loving food. It features great recipes suggested by chefs, IC experts, and ME!


To learn more about the ICA Update or to sign up to be a member of the Interstitial Cystitis Association you can visit: http://www.ichelp.com/Default.aspx?tabid=391

8.19.2009

"Cafe ICA"

So, that recent post I did about the Interstitial Cystitis Network Newsletter generated some interest and I was recently informed that the Interstitial Cystitis Association also has a free e-newsletter called "Cafe ICA."

This newsletter offers IC medical highlights, self-help and coping strategies, ICA news, and a variety of resources that would be of interest to an IC patient.

You can check out their Web site and join the mailing list here: http://www.ichelp.org/Newsroom/CafeICA/tabid/92/Default.aspx

8.10.2009

Interstitial Cystitis Network Newsletter

I wanted to share this resource that I use for interstitial cystitis news and updates. It is the newsletter from the Interstitial Cystitis Network Newsletter. It comes directly to my Inbox once a month or every two months and includes updates like:
  • Breaking News
  • Tips
  • Latest Research
  • Videos
  • Helpful Resources
  • Products
  • And so much more!

It is really a great thing to have to skim through and keep updated on the topic.

To subscribe to the newsletter visit: http://www.ic-network.com/newsletters/. You can also choose to subscribe to their quarterly magazine or follow the IC-Network on Twitter.

Just check it out! It is easy to unsubscribe if you don't like it.

4.22.2009

Diagnosed one year ago this month

One year ago this month I was officially diagnosed with interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome.

My whole life I hadn't experienced symptoms of the disease (and if I did, they weren't severe enough to notice) until January 2008. My diet had always consisted of lemonade and everything spicy. Then during the month of January 2008, I went to a local clinic five times for a recurring bladder infection/urinary tract infection. I knew something was wrong because I had never had a UTI in my life.

I spoke to my mom, who had actually been suffering from IC off and on for a few years and she said my symptoms were very similar to the disease. I didn't want to believe her, because I saw her go through the pain and how she had to change her diet. With her advice, I changed my diet to one similar to hers, but my symptoms still worsened. In April 2008, I went to her specialist and after the long grueling tests the doctor walked back in the examination room and said, "It's not that bad, you'll be fine," and I was devastated. He went on to tell me how he's lactose intolerant (this was during a time when I had an ice cream addiction, so his lecture did make feel a little better).

Since my diagnosis, I haven't taken any medications, such as Elmiron, because I was afraid of the terrible side effects. When I experienced flares, I took Pyridium to help with the pain. But after a year of being on an interstitial cystitis diet and learning more about what my body can handle, I can actually say I feel a lot better. Not only my bladder health, but my general health as well.

The hardest part of having interstitial cystitis is having to change your diet. But after having the disease for a year, I have found that it is a lot easier dealing with the strict diet rules. Once you get creative in the kitchen, the possibilities are endless. That's the reason I wanted to start this blog, I wanted to give create fun and IC-safe meal options for someone suffering from the disease.

For more information about interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome visit click here or check out the resources I have listed on this blog.

4.17.2009

Feline Interstitial Cystitis

I get google alerts for interstitial cystitis and related news so I can make sure I am up to speed on current trends in medical treatments and news. Something I have noticed more recently is the abundance of blog posts about cat owners dealing with their pet's interstitial cystitis. I think this is really a weird subject, and its almost humorous (but poor kitty).

Anyway, I saw a recent post about Holistic Cat Care mentioning feline interstitial cystitis and while it doesn't directly pertain to us humans, I thought it was an interesting article. I did enjoy reading it and identifying the link between feline IC and human IC. Who knows, maybe researchers can use this link to learn more about the disease to find cures.

If you would like to see the post click here.

4.13.2009

IC in the news

A reader from the St. Augustine Record wrote to Dr. Donohue in the paper's Health Wathch section asking for more information on interstitial cystits. The question and answer was published last friday. Dr. Donohue gave a pretty good description of interstitial cystitis and I thought I would share his comments with my readers. Also you can follow the link below to see the origional posting.

Bladder issue usually overlooked

DEAR DR. DONOHUE: I am writing to ask if you would give me information on interstitial cystitis. I was told I had this after I had a polyp removed from my bladder. I know it has to do with the lining of the bladder wall. What causes it? What's the treatment? Does it get worse? -- J.M.

ANSWER: Interstitial cystitis is also known as painful bladder syndrome. It's a fairly common condition that is commonly misdiagnosed. It affects more women than men. It occurs at any age, but typically, the onset is around age 40.

Frequently, a woman has symptoms for years and years and is told she has repeated bladder infections. Antibiotics, however, provide no relief. Trips to the bathroom are numerous, and nighttime urination disrupts sleep. Bladder pain can be severe. Urination often relieves the pain temporarily. Intercourse also can be painful.

One explanation says the protective covering of the bladder lining has thinned or has disappeared, and urine irritants come in contact with the sensitive bladder lining to produce pain. How this comes about is something that isn't known with certainty.

Symptoms can get worse, but treatments exist. One is the oral medicine Elmiron. Amitriptyline and gabapentin are also used for pain control.

If you find that a particular food causes increased pain, stay away from it. Spicy foods, citrus fruits and juices, tomatoes, chocolate, coffee, tea, carbonated drinks and alcohol are some things on the list of irritants for many with this problem.

If you feel lost about the diagnosis and its treatment, contact the Interstitial Cystitis Association at (800) 435-7422 or www.ichelp.org for information on treatment and support for this mystifying ailment that can completely throw life into turmoil.

3.23.2009

Who knew an innocent breakfast could be fatal?

A student at Huntington Beach High School in California had pancakes last week and it almost became fatal. His Mom, who is a registered nurse, made him pancakes for breakfast. She dropped him off at school, then headed to play tennis. She got a phone call from her son while on the court to hear he was having trouble breathing. She told him to go to the school nurse immediately and proceeded to call the school to alert them about her son. The nurse called the paramedics and an ambulance arrived in three minutes. The boy came very close to to loosing his life.

This is actually very common. Check the expiration dates on packages like pancakes and cake mixes that have yeast which over time develop spores. The mold that forms in old mixes can be toxic! Throw away ALL OUTDATED pancake mix, Bisquick, brownie mixes, etc. you have in your home. Check this website to read another instance similar to this that happened in 2006.

3.12.2009

Broadcast news clip of woman with interstitial cystitis

CBS in Atlanta recently did a news report on a woman who suffers from interstitial cystitis. Kim Waitz has an extreme case of IC, and the disease has completely changed her life. The news clip has a lot of good information about interstitial cystitis and can answer a lot of basic questions.



For more information on interstitial cystitis from this news source, check out their Web site here.

2.25.2009

Health Magazine Names America’s Top 10 Healthiest Fast Food Restaurants

So is there really such a thing as healthy fast food? Health Magazine's March issue of 2009 features the healthiest fast food chain restaurants in the United States, just in time for swim suit season. The list includes a few surprises.

See who made the list:

Panera Bread - Whole-grain bread and fresh fruit are centerpieces here, and there are plenty of vegetarian options. Health says that most of the chicken is antibiotic- and hormone-free, a rarity in large chains.

Jason's Deli - The chain is very dedicated to organic food - one-fifth of all its ingredients are organic, "from blue-corn tortilla chips and whole-wheat wraps to field greens and spinach."

Au Bon Pain - Considered a "pioneer in healthy fast food." Au Bon Pain's chicken is hormone-free and antibiotic-free, also.

Noodles & Company - Pasta is a filling enough meal that it's easy to omit the meat, but if you want protein, your choices include hormone- and antibiotic-free chicken and organic tofu.

Corner Bakery - Not a lot here on the cafe chain's green cred, but a quick look at the menu reveals that beef, which has the largest carbon footprint, is found sparingly here.

Chipotle - "Chipotle won high marks for its commitment to organics, hormone- and antibiotic-free meats, and produce sourced from local suppliers, which is revolutionary in a chain this big," said Health.

Atlanta Bread Company - This sandwich chain was praised for the freshness of its veggies and other ingredients.

McDonald's - Believe it or not, it's in the top 10 for healthy choices - but with the burger recently named the Hummer of our diet, the company isn't scoring many environmental points with its menu.

Einstein Bros. Bagels - Bagels and cream cheese and fresh veggies combine for plenty of meal options with a small footprint.

Taco Del Mar - Baja-style Mexican cuisine is a growing trend, says Health, and the menu shies away from beef and chicken in favor of fresh ingredients and fish.

Click here to view the full article.

1.26.2009

Teacher retires because of interstitial cystitis

I found an article on KenlyNews.com about a teacher who recently had to retire because of interstitial cystitis. She had to have her bladder removed and after a few months, the doctors were able to build her a new bladder. Unfortunately, the new bladder didn't help and her problems got worse forcing her to retire from teaching. Read the article below.

Glendale-Kenly elementary school teacher retires

After almost 33 years of teaching, decisions about her health have Glendale-Kenly Elementary School First grade teacher Cherri Stone entering her second retirement this past December.

Stone was diagnosed five years ago with a rare bladder disease, interstitial cystitis and two years ago the doctors had to remove her bladder. She retired but still wanted to return to teaching, and she did four and a half months later after doctor’s built her a new bladder. Recently she found her problems getting worse and made the hard decision to stop teaching...

Read full article here.

12.12.2008

Christmas Angels Program

The Interstitial Cystitis Network (ICN) organizes an annual program called Christmas Angels during the holidays to help interstitial cystitis patients in financial need. The program matches patients who are struggling with patients that can help them out. The program searches for people who can help others by sending gifts, food, clothing, children's toys or even gift certificates. If you would like more information or you would like to participate in the Christmas Angels Program contact the program coordinator Jaime at: holidayassistance@ic-network.com. The more who volunteer, the more patients in need will be helped.

Visit the IC-Network.com to learn more.

12.05.2008

Living Beyond Disease

I came across a touching story on another blog about Michele Longo O'Donnell's 11-year journey with interstitial cystitis. In O'Donnell's book, The God that we've Created, she writes how the only option left to her was to have her bladder removed. This meant she would wear bags to catch the urine flow for the rest of her life. O'Donnell was determined to not let the disease take over her life anymore. Now she is a motivational speaker, author and even has her own weekly radio show where she helps her listeners 'live beyond disease.'

You can find excerpts of O'Donnell's book on the GodIsAVerb.com blog. The blogger, Jodi McDonald, has also attended some of O'Donnell's lectures. Visit O'Donnell's Web site to find out more about her touching story or to purchase a book at LivingBeyondDisease.com.

12.04.2008

Making it through the holidays with food sensitivities

That time of year of has come where we spend more time with friends and family, get a few days off from work, attend holiday parties, and of course eat more. I'm sure a those of you with food sensitivities were forced to test your self control over the Thanksgiving holiday. I know I did. It helps to think about how you will handle a dinner situation before it happens. Here are four ways to enjoy the holidays without making yourself sick:
  • Search for popular holiday recipes alternatives that you can make for your holiday dinner or take with you to a family dinner.
  • Try to avoid the foods that you know will make your symptoms flare.
  • If you are going to a holiday dinner, see if the host/hostess will be willing to work in some alternative foods that you can enjoy.
  • And if it is just a holiday party, go by my mom's motto (who also has IC), "when in doubt, eat before you go."
For more on this article go to FightingFatigue.org.

12.02.2008

A Pilates Video for People with Pelvic Pain



I have had a hard time with fitness in the last few months. Every time I try to jog or use the elliptical I have to cut my time short because I almost pass out from pelvic pain or I have to run to the restroom to handle my extreme nausea.

I came across the New Dawn Pilates workout video on the Pilates Workout DVD blog. It was created with those suffering from pelvic pain in mind. The video is a daily pilates workout that can be customized to fit the viewer's needs and pain levels. New Dawn Pilates is carefully choreographed and instructed by Occupational Therapist and Pilates Instructor, Jenny Buttaccio. Jenny also suffers from chronic pelvic pain from Interstitial Cystitis.

The DVD is only $29.99 and can be purchased on the New Dawn Pilates Web site. This would even make a great stocking stuffer for someone that suffers from IC!

11.20.2008

November is Bladder Health Month

Throughout the month of November, the American Urological Association is urging those in with bladder pains or irregularities to discuss the symptoms a physician. Urological conditions are often misdiagnosed or neglected and can lead to more serious problems.

Visit health.USNews.com for more information and a list of various urological conditions.

10.23.2008

Dr. Robert Moldwin speaks on interstitial cystitis

I found a video of a forum hosted by Dr. Robert Moldwin, director of the Pelvic Pain Center, at the Smith Institute for Urology on YouTube explaining interstitial cystitis as a medical condition. Dr. Moldwin is a urologist and is very knowledgeable of interstitial cystitis. He is also the author of the "IC Survival Guide." The video is very informative and may answer questions about the disease.

Watch Video Now

10.20.2008

October 20 - 24 as National Interstitial Cystitis Awareness Week

The National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women’s Health announced the launch of Interstitial Cystitis Awareness Week on October 20-24, 2008. This week of activities, planned in partnership with the Interstitial Cystitis Network (ICN) with the support of Ortho Women's Health & Urology, aims to raise awareness of this painful bladder condition and demonstrates the transformative power and support that new communications technologies can provide for small patient groups.

An estimated one million Americans suffer from interstitial cystitis (IC), a painful, and often debilitating, chronic condition in which the bladder lining becomes irritated and inflamed. The condition mostly affects women, who make up an estimated 90 percent of IC patients.

“Imagine you have a deep paper cut that you pour an acidic liquid onto, continuously. That is only a fraction of what many IC patients feel in their bladder and pelvis on a regular basis," Susan Wysocki, President and CEO of National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women’s Health, said. "Some IC patients describe throbbing, stabbing pains and muscle spasms that take their breath away."

Patients are commonly misdiagnosed with other pelvic conditions, such as endometriosis, recurrent urinary tract infections, and overactive bladder because of the similar symptoms.

AllAboutIC.com conducted a survey of IC patients. Ninety-five percent of respondents have felt frustrated with their condition, 75 percent have felt depressed, and 67 percent felt isolated and embarrassed. One third of respondents reported being told their condition may be psychological, and one fifth said they had been referred to a mental health professional. More than half of those surveyed (58 percent) said it took over a year to get the correct diagnosis.
“Research shows that most patients consult at least five physicians, including psychiatrists, over a period of more than four years before being diagnosed with interstitial cystitis. This is devastating. No one should have to suffer in silence for so long,” Wysocki said.

National Interstitial Cystitis Awareness Week 2008 acknowledges the daily struggle to manage this painful and little-known condition and aims to raise awareness for it by sharing information, insights and experience from those living with IC. Participate in National Interstitial Cystitis Awareness Week by spreading the word about IC.

Below are a list of events during National Interstitial Cystitis Awareness Week 2008
Monday, October 20
PBS “Healthy Body, Healthy Mind: Interstitial Cystitis” special begins to air nationally. Check local listings for more information
• 123 IC contest winners & 2008 IC Ambassadors announced on AllAboutIC.com
• Updates to All About Interstitial Cystitis groups on Facebook and MySpace
Tuesday, October 21
IC Week Podcast: “Interstitial Cystitis 101”
Wednesday, October 22
IC Week Podcast: “Talk to your health care professional when the going gets tough” with WPWH’s Susan Wysocki
Thursday, October 23
IC Week Podcast: “When the going gets tough, Don’t let IC isolate you!” with ICN’s Jill Osborne
Friday, October 24
• Check out real patient stories and encouraging words on AllAboutIC.com

9.23.2008

Interstitial cystitis petition of support!

Fill out the online pettition to support those with interstitial cystis. This is a campaign to raise awareness of the condition since many are often misdiagnosed and go on to live their live with while symptoms worsen. You will also be entered to win an iPod!

https://www.allaboutic.com/allaboutic/123ic/index.html

Send to all your friends!

9.19.2008

Biopharmaceutical company recieves $12 million for interstitial cystitis research

Trillium Therapeutics Inc., a private research and development company, received $12 million from investors to advance in clinical development. Trillium's lead program is constructing an artificial DNA growth factor to be used for the treatment of interstitial cystitis. Looks like there is hope for the future!

Check out the full article at: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/September2008/18/c5645.html

9.17.2008

Pain Reliever lotion?

I found this article online and I thought I would share it. I have not tried this lotion, but I have seen a few mentionings of it online in reference to interstitial cystitis. If any one does try it, or has tried it please let me know! Here is the link: http://www.prweb.com/releases/2008/09/prweb1327864.htm

(PRWEB) September 16, 2008 -- Long term pain sufferer announces the development of a non prescription pain remedy and healing lotion.
This deep penetrating lotion helps stop pain, reduces inflammation, and actually speeds the healing process -- it helps injuries heal at the cellular level.
It is important to note that this lotion is not a drug, but a combination of two natural, amazing products, blended in a special way.
This lotion will help those who are suffering from pain now, or who have in the past, and those who wish to have less pain in the future.
It has broad application: it works amazingly well for arthritis and other chronic painful conditions, and it is also extremely effective in treating the normal aches and pains we all encounter in our daily lives -- sports injuries, stubbed toe, bruised shins, minor burns, tennis elbow, twisted ankle, sore back, arthritis pain, herpes, some headaches, etc.
The two products are DMSO and Honey, two of nature's miracle products. The inventor, Mr. Raymond, has used DMSO for many years. Being an inventor, with several U.S. Patents, he had experimented with different ingredients to help lessen, or eliminate, DMSO's minor side effects, and to improve its effectiveness.
It was finally discovered, after sampling many ingredients, over an extended period of time, that the combination of the DMSO and honey created a unique product, combining the benefits of both, as well as lessening the minor side effects of the DMSO.
The combined product, which is called "The DMSO.BZ Solution", is so unique, and effective, that it has been granted provisional "patent pending" status by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. It is believed that almost every person can benefit, and improve the quality of their lives, by properly using this lotion. Research indicates that this formulation is unique in the world.
DMSO (Dimethyl Sulfoxide), was originally discovered as a natural by-product of the wood pulp paper industry, and has been in use commercially since 1953. It is claimed that DMSO is one of the most studied but least understood pharmaceutical agents of our time, at least in the United States, where it has pretty much been keep secret from the public.
According to Stanley Jacob, MD, a former head of the organ transplant program at Oregon Health Sciences University in Portland: DMSO has been used for over fifty years worldwide, and some 11,000 articles have been written on its medical and clinical implications; in 125 countries throughout the world, including Canada, Great Britain, Germany, and Japan, doctors prescribe it for a variety of ailments, including pain, inflammation, scleroderma, interstitial cystitis, arthritis, and even elevated inter-cranial pressure (pressure on the brain).
DMSO, while it works its wonders, can be a little irritating to the skin. Honey actually helps protect the skin and helps to moisturize it, while also being anti bacterial in its own right. DMSO also has a characteristic odor, taste and smell, more obvious to some than to others. Some liken it to garlic. The proper blend of the honey lessens these side effects. The honey provides a silky softness to the skin, while not being sticky.
The DMSO.BZ solution of DMSO is generally applied topically, to the skin. There is usually a rapid reduction of swelling, inflammation, and pain. At the same time the process of the healing of tissue at the cellular level is actually enhanced and promoted. Numerous clinical studies support these facts. The solution is so safe that many people take it internally, and some actually inject it in problem areas.
Some notables say this about DMSO:Dr. Julian Whitaker, in his "Health and Healing" newsletter states: "DMSO: A Truly Unique Compound". He then goes on to tell about how it has helped him personally and some of its many uses. He also talks about MSM, a derivative of DMSO, and how beneficial it is also.
Dr. David Williams, in his newsletter "Alternatives" states: "DMSO. Today you'd be hard-pressed to find a sports team that doesn't use this wonderful pain-relieving liniment." DMSO is also used extensively to treat injury to animals. Kevin Trudeau, in his best seller, "Natural Cures They Don't Want You to Know About", states that DMSO is a "miracle" product, and he further discusses why DMSO has been kept from the public. It has been alleged, because the major patents have long since expired, that the drug and medical lobbies have attempted to prevent wide spread knowledge of this product from going mainstream, as they cannot profit from it.
Mr. Raymond has arranged for this product to be distributed by a long established internet firm, Painease Products. For complete information go to their web site: http://www.dmso-use.com/.
There you will find copies of articles, as well as copies of U.S. Government issued patents proclaiming the many medical benefits of this unique product. You will also find documentation of actual usage of this product over an extensive time period.
For additional information you may email them at: relief@painease.com, or call Roger at: (310) 398-8939.