The Proactive Patient: Managing Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome and the Related Conditions: Pelvic Floor Dysfunction, Vulvodynia, Chronic . Bowel Syndrome, Fibromyalgia, and More

The Proactive Patient offers a comprehensive understanding of Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome (IC/BPS) and the often occurring overlapping conditions. Patients will find an assortment of treatments, both traditional and alternative, as well as the right tools and resources to improve their quality of life. This detailed book will be helpful to partners, families, friends, co-workers, bosses, and even doctors, nurses, naturopaths, and many other healthcare practitioners, who need a better understanding of IC/BPS and the related illnesses. Endorsements "The Proactive Patient was superbly written! This book is the IC 'bible' for the newly diagnosed as well as the educated patient advocating for quality of life. There isn't another IC book written by an IC patient that has such comprehensive, patient friendly information. Educating the patient, sharing valuable information such as - IC and overlapping conditions - chemical sensitivities - helpful IC diet tips and gentle stretching exercises to achieve total body comfort. A must read for all who want to achieve a full life in spite of having this chronic condition!" Molly Hanna Glidden, former leader of the Boston MetroWest Interstitial Cystitis Support Group "I was diagnosed with Interstitial Cystitis and other painful conditions several decades ago. I thought I knew this illness landscape, but The Proactive Patient by Gaye and Andrew Sandler taught me how much more there was to learn. I learned something new on every single page of this informative and essential book. You will find everything here--information about diet, traditional and alternative therapies, self-help, managing sex and menopause and more--all in language that is straightforward and comprehensible to the non-professional. There is also a helpful and touching chapter written by Ms. Sandler's partner and co-author about his role in their shared journey. After enjoying a good read, you will want to keep this book nearby as a valuable resource you will come back to again and again for aid, information and support." Joy Selak, Ph.D., co-author of You Don't Look SIck! Living Well with Invisible Chronic Illness "This book truly is a user's guide to the often misunderstood condition of Interstitial Cystitis. The complex symptoms and pathophysiology are described here in understandable and very thorough detail. By understanding this basis the patient can then explore the vast treatment options, which include both traditional and alternative therapies. I have been a practicing Urologist for 16 years and this book has widened my understanding of IC. I will be recommending it both to my patients and colleagues." Joy Nielsen, M.D. "The Proactive Patient is even more resourceful and informative than the authors' first edition, Patient to Patient. This new revised edition should be read by every patient who has already been diagnosed, or believes they have IC/BPS and/or one of the related conditions. It should be mandatory reading for all healthcare providers - including doctors! - and students learning about the various symptoms and treatments, and especially how you as the patient can more correctly describe your concerns to healthcare providers. Most importantly, the health information here will enable you to live a much more active and fuller life. The best proactive patient is the informed patient." Cindy Sinclair, President, Pure HOPE, http://www.pure-hope.org/ "Gaye and Andy Sandler have written a very thorough and informative book on PBS/IC. This book will be a valuable addition to the libraries of IC sufferers. Knowledge is certainly power when it comes to living with this debilitating chronic disease. Thanks to Gaye for sharing personal experiences of her journey with IC." Barb Zarnikow, ICA Patient and Board Co-Chair, Interstitial Cystitis Association