Hi again,

Just wanted to say that Margaret is about 30 miles northeast of B'ham.  We are inbetween I-20 and I-59 so can use either interstate to go into B'ham.  We moved here about 2 1/2 years ago before things got really bad with the IC and I am glad since the doctor who after giving me brochures about IC, told to go home and figure out if that is what I have.  Then he told me that if I decided I have IC there was nothing he could do for me.  That was a doctor in Tuscaloosa.

Be back later.....Sonja

Hi Kristi,

I haven't been on the computer much lately, but I wanted to give you an update.  First I had an instillation into my bladder June 1 and it helped tremendously, although not at first.  I will have another one June 15.  I was also given a prescription for Benzocaine Vaginal Gel and it eliminated the remainder of the pain which was pain after urination and the only problem after the instillation finally took effect.  I must admit that the pain was excruiciating for about 4 hours, but gradually became less and less each day until Sunday I finally realized that I didn't need any more pain meds.  That is when the cream even eliminated the pain after urination.  I went in for this treatment because last year it helped during a really bad flareup in my bladder and after 3 times my quantity urinating about doubled thus less frequent visits to the bathroom.  I decided to try again this year since we are leaving to go to WI to visit relatives on July 6 and wanted the same results as last year.  I plan to be better about my food choices this year and hope it will last beyond our return. 

I see another Kristi from Dothan posted a comment.  Like her I also have an interstim implant, but due to the pain since last fall it has been turned off since Christmas.  My pain is all on the left side and that is where the wires were placed.  One of these days I will get brave and turn it back on, but will wait another week or two I think. 

My appt for Alex Childs has been moved up to Sept 1 from Oct 1 and I am still on the waiting list for cancellations which they claim do happen often.

Take care and hope both of you feel better.....Sonja

Hey Kristi, I am from Dothan, Al. and I have IC and an Interstim Implant. I have a lot of other related health problems due to IC. I just had some things I wanted to share with you about a doctor and the things that I am currently doing for my IC. I also wanted to know what helps you... BTW.. My name is Kristi also.... How Funny!! and it is even spelled the same way... If u want to chat comment back....Much Love.. K... 

I'm sorry Sonja, I put the wrong name on the last comment.

Hi Misty,

I will check into the doctor you recommened. I have had "IC" now for 19 years so I can wait until next fall to see another doctor. I have severe pain with mine. I know exactly what you mean about the pelvic pain. I deal with pain on a daily basis. Where is Margaret, AL? I have never heard of it. How far is it from Montgomery? I am actually right outside of Montgomery in the country. I live in Mathews,AL. It is only 15 minutes from Montgomery. I hope you find some relief soon from your symptoms. I know how miserable it can be. I suffer from depression because of dealing with ''IC''. I hope to hear from you soon. I am sorry it took so long to get back to you.

Take care,

Kristi

Hi Kristi, my name is Sonja and I live in Margaret, AL.  My Gynecologist referred me to Alex Childs a couple weeks ago.  He is in the Brookwood Medical Center in B'ham. I found him on the ICA website and asked her about him.  She recommends him and refers patients to him regularly.  The only problem is new patients have to wait until next fall for their first appointment.  Although they did put me on a waitlist for cancellations.  I have had IC for over 3 years and it seems to be managed quite well by diet and Elmiron.  My main problem now is lower pelvic pain.  As someone else stated it feels like a steak knife inserted into the region, but in my case it has multiple blades!