Amanda
Hi, I've had the same exact feelings as you. Actually, I posted a message just a few weeks ago that sounded a lot like yours. I was diagnosed with IC when I was 22. I will be 25 in January. I tried many treatments; DMSO, strong anti-inflammatories, changing my diet, etc. None of these helped. At times I was doubled over in pain and like you had considered bladder removal. Wait! Don't do it! Have you tried any anti-anxiety drugs? That's what saved me and my bladder. I realized that I've had anxiety since I was very young and my theory is that IC can stem from anxiety. I say that "I take my stress out on my bladder". My whole IC ordeal is of course a lot more drawn out & complicated & frustrating & painfull, but I've finally realized that anxiety pills are the closest thing to a cure for me, so just something to consider. Amanda