Inactive bladder with NO elasticity remaining

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!

did they give you a choice Holep or TURP? any side effects from that?

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

My dad is 76. Previously a completely healthy man. He had a procedure called prostatic artery embolization about a year ago. Was supposed to be a simple procedure. However, I believe there were errors made and now a year later, he has a “dead bladder” as well. He has to use nephrostomy tubes. Very uncomfortable and obviously inconvenient to not be able to live life how he had just 1 year ago. It has definitely taken a toll on his mental health as well. Anybody else dealing with this? Does anybody know of other solutions for a dead bladder? Besides the invasive surgery which he has decided against.

@awolfe, does your dad have what is referred to as an atonic bladder, sometimes called a flaccid or acontractile bladder, refers to a bladder whose muscles don’t fully contract.

- Atonic Bladder: What Does It Mean? https://www.healthline.com/health/atonic-bladder

Does this article describe what your dad is experiencing?

@awolfe, does your dad have what is referred to as an atonic bladder, sometimes called a flaccid or acontractile bladder, refers to a bladder whose muscles don’t fully contract.

- Atonic Bladder: What Does It Mean? https://www.healthline.com/health/atonic-bladder

Does this article describe what your dad is experiencing?

Tom, I'm so sorry for your situation! I received my catheters from Medical 180 with minimal cost. I'm on Medicare as well. You would have to get a prescription from your Dr. for these. If contact info is needed, let me know. As far as possible help I suggest getting a referral to Mayo Clinic. I had an enlarged prostate which Dr. Wymer did a procedure called a HoLep, decreasing the size of the prostate. He is at Minneapolis, Minnesota. If there is any help for you it's at MAYO, they are fantastic!!!