Alcohol, sodas, cold weather and a thank you

[omschiefslr]

All-
I am quite sensitive to fermented foods. I am also very sensitive to wheat, although I do not have a wheat allergy or Celiac Disease. My IC/CPPS is most always relieved by pure distilled alcohol like vodka. It usually takes an ounce to two ounces. I don not have to get intoxicated to receive the effect and usually drink it with cranberry juice. What is interesting is that some beer and champagne can really set me into a flare. I guess the fermentation process of those liquors does it? There also may be some wheat in the beer that sets me into a flare.

Regarding sodas, it is only the diet sodas that are a problem. It must be the aspartame in the diet coke or other diet drinks. Regular sodas do not create a problem. On the can of the diet sodas it warns against drinking them if you are a phenylketonuric. I wonder how this applies to what is going on for us as vasoconstricting foods, supplements or drugs will set me off. I really have a problem with MSG. Glutamate is a neurotransmitter and must activate the pain nerve endings in the bladder or perineal area.

Cold weather? I golf outdoors during the Winter here in California. Urination is difficult when it is cold! The bladder wants to empty rapidly but the internal sphincter doesn't seem to dilate and rapid emptying can cause post urinary bleeding. Has anybody else had this problem?

Thanks Webslave, I am learning a lot and wish I had found you sooner!
Best, Omschiefslr