How is interstitial cystitis diagnosed?

IC diagnosis: By history and physical exam, negative urine cultue, pain relief with instillation of local anesthetic in the bladder and cystoscopy.

Cystoscopy: The easiest way which may not be accurate is by using a questionnaire. Another method is by presenting to your physician who would infuse some fluid into your bladder and sometimes depending on the sensation you experience (usualy pain) this could be suggestive of a diagnosis. The most definitive way to diagnose it is by using a camera & looking inside the bladder while distending it with water.