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Advice and feedback from those who been treated with BCG
Like most who are just recently diagnosed with high-risk, hi grade Ta/T1 NMIBC, I am apprehensive on what is to come with BCG treatments. Some general questions I would like to throw out to the group.
1, After an instillation, will I be able to work the next day or will fatigue and other side effects be too much. What side effects are the worst?
2. Similarly, I am an active swimmer 3000meter/day. I have come to terms that will change (and has after TURBT/Gemcitabine). Will I be able to work out at least 3 to 4 days a week even if it's less intense, or not at all.
3. Are there going to physical changes (loss of weight, muscle mass, mental clarity)
These are my concerns for now, but I am sure I will be back with others.
Any other observations would be much appreciated
Thank You so much
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My husband (84) received exact same diagnosis 2 years ago. He has BCG and regular scopes—doing well at 2 year mark. Instillations are on Fridays—only side effects are fatigue and occasionally low grade fever for 24 hours. By Sunday morning-he’s fine-teaches Sunday School-etc. He still practices law 5 days a week and walks
3 miles a day for exercise. Wishing you the best!
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1 ReactionI've had two, six-week, BCG sessions. Did experience fatigue but it didn't keep me off the golf course. Based on my experience (I'm 85 with similar diagnosis), you should have no problem working the day after your treatments and none of the physical changes you listed. But your physician is best qualified to deal with your questions and concerns.
From what I've read from others on this site, reactions to BCG can range from minimal to major, so it really will come down to how you react and feel. I'm through two rounds thus far, (6 and 3), and begin the next round of 3 in May. My dosages are 1/3 strength BCG, which might have a beneficial impact on my mild reactions to date. As for your questions: 1) Absolutely you should be able to work the following day; reactions: had tiny clots the day of, slight burning as the BCG was exiting, headaches the night of, and mild fatigue; 2) If you react as I have, your workouts shouldn't change; 3) No physical changes that I've noticed. Each person's story is different. Best of luck on your journey.
Thank you so much for your reply. It is very reassuring and lowers my anxiety about the future. I truly hope your remaining treatments go well and your scopes are clean
Paul
@buenaThank You for sharing.