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Urine Retention & Voiding/Bladder Dysfunction
Kidney & Bladder | Last Active: Aug 14, 2023 | Replies (17)Comment receiving replies
I am 80 and a healthy male. Diagnosed with bladder cancer last February. The cancer was removed successfully however it was high-grade and I am undergoing observation and BCG treatments. My bladder was greatly distended due to an enlarged prostate and not being able to empty completely. I am now using catheters and would love regain normal function. I have seen three different Urlogist none of them Have recommended Physical therapy/exercises. Would like to hear from any men who have successfully recovered function with exercises. If you’re out there please give me as much info as possible. Thanks for any replies.
Replies to "I am 80 and a healthy male. Diagnosed with bladder cancer last February. The cancer was..."
Hi, Daniel (@dan80). Your situation and mine were very similar, except that my bladder cancer was perhaps not as high grade as yours. It involved a dozen or so pedestal-type papillary tumors that sprouted on the lining of my bladder but never got the chance to grow into the bladder muscle. They were removed in a TURB procedure, and I had five weekly BCG treatments to prevent further tumors. This was several years ago, and the treatments worked; annual cystoscopes of my bladder show no further tumors.
The tumors were discovered after a TURP that removed a golf-ball size amount of prostate tissue. That operation ended serious bladder function problems, but in recent months, my bladder has once again pressed in on my urethra, interfering with my urges to empty my bladder (and get a full night's sleep without interruption). As with you, my series of three urologists have not added physical therapy and exercise to our plan for better urine excretion, and my exercise program has not helped my growing problem. I'd endorse the advice from Elizabeth (@ess77) to get a second opinion from another urologist or two AND find a large medical center (state university or Mayo) for relief from your conditions. Martin
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@terwifwoods, @dan80, @lindes, and all other 'bladder- babies'...I'm a Mayo
Jacksonville patient and see a gyno-urologist there to help me with some of the same issues you seem to be having. I'm not sure that specialty is a good match for you, as a man....but I do know...urologist is for you. I do know Mayo has a good department to help us. And, the newest treatments as well.
I strongly suggest you see more than one urologist especially since you have some serious life-changing issues. I also have found seeing a specialist at a major research hospital, or university teaching hospital or such is a very good direction to get the best info. I live in Jacksonville, Florida, so it was logical for me to visit Mayo. It's been the best decision I've ever made!
I do know catheters can and often do lead to infections, no fun. I also had physical exercise sessions for pelvic floor dysfunction. That, my friend, you need to discuss with your urologist whom you trust to know the newest and best for you. I found it helpful for me until she used a tens unit too strong and too long and I had some discomfort for days. Haven't been back. but that's due to some new problems in other specialties that took my focus. I do think therapy can really help and may be part of the way for you to improve.
Again, strongly recommend you get a second opinion and from a doctor in a teaching or large facility.
Blessings on your journey. May you find the answers and professionals to guide you to better health.
Elizabeth