Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a disease which, despite years of research, remains poorly understood. Once thought to be rare, prevalence rates have increased in recent years, which has been attributed to improved understanding of the disease and more selective diagnostic criteria. Despite this, the condition remains difficult to diagnose, and as a
result many of those affected suffer for years before the cause of their symptoms is confirmed. This article hopes to give nurses and nonmedical prescribers more knowledge of this complex disease so that they can facilitate earlier diagnosis and treatment, reducing the risk of misdiagnosis, which will ultimately improve outcomes and reduce the impact on the health and wellbeing of all those with this condition.