A 32-year-old female presents with lower urinary tract symptoms including dysuria, frequency, and urgency, which have been occurring on and off for the past several months. However, her urine cultures have been consistently negative. She also mentions discomfort during sexual intercourse. What is the potential diagnosis, and how should this be managed?
This patient might be suffering from interstitial cystitis (also known as painful bladder syndrome), a chronic condition characterized by bladder pressure, bladder pain, and sometimes pelvic pain, with negative urine cultures. Management involves lifestyle modifications, such as dietary changes to avoid foods that irritate the bladder, bladder training, and potentially medications like pentosan polysulfate sodium or amitriptyline. Some patients may benefit from physical therapy or procedural interventions.