Hello and welcome to HCM. Thank you for your query. First of all, let me help you by listing the symptoms of both a urinary tract infection (UTI) and interstitial cystitis (IC). Starting with symptoms of a UTI, they are: -Burning sensation while urinating -Frequent urination -Increased urge to urinate, but less amount of urine passed -Chills -Fever -Lower abdominal and/or flank region pain -Itching around the genitals -Blood in urine or immediately after (not always seen) Not all symptoms need to be present to clinically suspect a UTI. Now coming to the symptoms of IC, they are: -Pain during sexual intercourse (dyspareunia) -Frequent urination -Increased urge to urinate, but less amount of urine passed -Urinary discomfort -Pelvic pain (lower abdominal) Now let me shed some light on the investigations, available to diagnose these condition, starting with a UTI. A UTI is usually suspected due to the clinical presentation, which is then followed by a urine analysis, which at times is not as accurate; when this happens we order a urine culture examination, which is highly accurate and also provides additional information like the infection-causing organism, the most suitable medication that can be used to treat the condition, etc. The investigations used to diagnose IC are the following: -Urine analysis -Urine culture and sensitivity -Bladder biopsy -Cystoscopy All the above mentioned symptoms and investigations are most accurate, and always help in making a diagnosis. I am sure, that if you do have the conditions you are suspecting, then these investigations will report it. If these return negative, an abdominal and pelvic ultrasound can also help in further investigating your condition and possible cause. In the meantime, please consume plenty of water, as dehydration can also cause some UTI-related symptoms. If your urine is acidic, adding a urine alkalizer to your daily regimen can reduce all your symptoms. I hope I have succeeded in providing the information you were looking for. Please feel free to write back to me for any further clarifications. I would gladly help you. Best wishes.