One more test to go...

[Stacie Lynn]

I have been having bladder issues since my hysterectomy in Aug 2010. Technically, I have been having problems on and off my whole life, but it has been ridiculous since the surgery. At first, they were sure it was over-active bladder and through the whole drug store at me, but nothing worked. They did an ultra-sound to check for retention and there was none, but when I was empty I still felt full. I had urodynamics done and they were able to tell that I didn't have over-active bladder...makes sense why the meds didn't work. Then came the cysto...that hurt soooo bad! He found lots of inflammation at the neck of the bladder and also lots of issues with the muscles of the pelvic floor. That was when he diagnosed me with PFD. I have started PT for that. NOW I have one more test for IC. He is going with the two solutions, one should be fine either way. One will hurt if there is IC. ANYONE have this test done??? On top of everything else I am 3 weeks out of a bi-lateral pulmonary embolism, so he has been putting off lots of these tests. I am wondering if this test is terribly painful if positive. Is it accurate? I guess I am just looking for others experience with this one...
Thanks,
Stacie

[greeneyes]

I haven't had the test done, but I wanted to say if you do have IC you've found a great place for information and a wonderful place to vent your frustrations.

[nanawaggs]

Hi, Stacie ~ I'm so sorry that you're having such problems but this is definitely a good place to come for sharing with others who have similar issues. I believe the test you're writing about is the Potassium Test. Although I personally haven't had it, there are many others here who have and may be able to share better. My doctor had me scheduled for it but at the time I was in so much pain that neither the doctor nor the nurse for that matter wanted to put me though it. Yes, it's my understanding that if you have IC it will most likely be very painful when they use the potassium vs the water, however they should be ready to follow it immediately with an analgesic instilled to calm the bladder down. As I mentioned, I don't have personal experience, but I'm sure you can find many comments if you search. Many doctors will diagnose IC off symptoms nowadays and avoid the test.

Blessings that you'll feel better soon and although this may sound frightening, please don't form your decision until you've heard from others and remember that the calming solution is immediate if I'm correct. You may want to ask if this is the procedure your doctor uses. Jill Osborne has a Sticky Post for "The Potassium Test" you might want to search for and read.