Cystitis is inflammation of the urinary bladder. The term interstitial cystitis (also called interstitial cystic) is used to designate cases in which the condition is chronic. It is far more common in women than in men, and the cause is unknown, although it is known that it is not caused by bacterial or viral infections. People affected by this type of cystitis wall have completely swollen and painful bladder, which causes scarring of the bladder or causes stiffness, resulting in the inability to expand as it fills with urine. Symptoms vary widely, but typically include pulse urgency to urinate, urinary frequency, and even pain during intercourse. There is no definitive cure for interstitial cystitis, so treatments are usually focused on improving symptoms, and may include diet, exercise bladder control, medication, physical therapy, etc.