Still bleeding 5 weeks after initial 6 week BCG course

Hi, @buckbottoms, and welcome. I'm sorry to hear that you're still experiencing bleeding after your BCG treatment.

I'm adding your discussion to the Bladder Cancer support group (https://connect.mayoclinic.org/group/bladder-cancer/), where you'll find quite a few members who've gone through BCG treatment and might be able share their experiences with you. There are also several discussions on BCG that you might find helpful. (See all https://connect.mayoclinic.org/group/bladder-cancer/?search=BCG&index=discussions).

Have you had a chance to share your concerns with your doctor?

Yes, he is not concerned… but I am.
Thanks for any advice you can provide.
Sincerely appreciated,
Buck

Buck, bleeding after BCG treatments is one of the expected side effects, as is clotting, especially, but not limited to those on blood thinner as I am. It is always alarming to see, but is usually not very serious. A little blood can seem like alot. If it is really dark red maybe take a sample to show the doc. Ask the doc when you should be concerned (color, duration, etc.). If he doesn't like reasonable questions like that, find a new, more compassionate doc.

Buck, oops on my part, I didn't notice you said 5 weeks after the completion of initial BCG treatments. That is not my experience at all. I've only had it happen a day or so after each treatment. My suggestion is still the same, ask him when it should concern you. BTW, are you on a blood thinner? Suggest you get a blood test for anemia to check on loss of iron.

Thanks to all ; I am not on blood thinners. My doctor through his nurses apparently is not concerned. I have a scheduled Cystoscopy on October 6th. I see discoloration every time I go to the bathroom.

Unless it obstructs your ability to urinate -you are probably better off to just observe it and document. You are already set up for cystoscopy so you shouldn’t worry until after then.

Thanks

No, blood thinners? I saw that you are not , sorry.

Hello @buckbottoms. My husband was on BCG and did not have continued bleeding like that. I think your cystoscopy will likely demonstrate the reason why it is continuing for you. It only takes a very small amount of blood to discolor the urine so if you are not passing clots that is likely why your doctor is not concerned. I am surprised about no blood thinners though as I thought that was pretty standard treatment due to bladder cancer patients being at increased risk for blood clots. My husband was on Eliquis throughout his treatment at Mayo Clinic in Rochester. Maybe ask your oncologist about it? Keep us updated about your cysto results.

Thanks, I have a week to go; praying for good results.