Inactive bladder with NO elasticity remaining

I was recently diagnosed with the same situation; similarly, an overstretched and "dead bladder" with no cure. I feel like my life has abruptly taken a severe downturn. I saved to be able to travel, but I self cath at least 10 times a day--seemingly much more than others--and I can't take that many catheters without risk of loss. And the cost for what Medicare doesn't cover is about $500 a month. This situation has also imperiled my mental health inasmuch as I was previously spoiled; a very heathy person. How do you fellow suffers deal with this? I have trouble coming to acceptance. Thanks. Tom

I self Cath but not nearly 10 times a day....(seems like a lot) I average 5 times a day - maybe more if I have a few beers. The art of self cath is not so much an issue as ensuring you have enough wherever you go. I too struggle with that and wish there was another alternative. I know my bladder was somewhat weak going into the Urolift operation but I still do not understand why it completely fell asleep. I'm looking for some new method to try to knick it into somewhat of a gear so I don't have to rely on 100% cath. I heard acupuncture but not sure....anyone out there able to get their bladder to work after they said its "dead" .... something to stimulate the nerves?

Yes, I have een self cathing now for roughly five years. Each and every time I do, I get pissed off (pun intended). I am not sure if anything could have been done when I was first diagnosed with a distended bladder, but a cystoscopy performed by a quack urologist (IMO) ultimately inflated my already weak bladder to the point that it is no longer functional. Now I am cathing 4-5 times daily. And yes, traveling and cathing away from home is inconvenient and frustrating since the use of urinals is no longer an option for me.

Yes I am I interested! I self cath 4 times daily, had trouble with UTI’s, but think I have gotten it under control now! Would be interested in knowing what others are doing!

I share your concerns and frustration. I had a history of IC and about a year before my bladder stopped working, I had a hydrodistension under general anesthesia. In hindsight, that seems inappropriate. Hard not to be depressed 24 x 7. Tom.

If you could read the Latest Update post below. If at all possible go to MAYO in Rochester. They are the BEST!!!! I hope they can help you.

I self Cath but not nearly 10 times a day....(seems like a lot) I average 5 times a day - maybe more if I have a few beers. The art of self cath is not so much an issue as ensuring you have enough wherever you go. I too struggle with that and wish there was another alternative. I know my bladder was somewhat weak going into the Urolift operation but I still do not understand why it completely fell asleep. I'm looking for some new method to try to knick it into somewhat of a gear so I don't have to rely on 100% cath. I heard acupuncture but not sure....anyone out there able to get their bladder to work after they said its "dead" .... something to stimulate the nerves?

Thank you for your comments. Yes, anxiety over not having catheters always at hand. A big risk if traveling with the frequency of lost baggage. I haven’t completely given up, but it’s tough, as you know. Tom.

Latest update: I no longer have to cath (maybe once in awhile). My prostate was very enlarged, Dr Kevin Wymer at MAYO in Manchester did a HoLEP procedure. My bladder still does not function. However, I'm able to void and completely empty my bladder. I know this doesn't seem possible, I'm giving God the total glory, because in reality I shouldn't be able to pee. If your situation is similar, I suggest getting a referral from your primary physician to MAYO!! Wishing you the very best!