update on my situation

[rko]

Hi all, i thought i would update you on my situation.Im a 29 year old guy and been having this problem, as best as i can describe it a feeling that your bladder doesnt feel empty most of the time.Like when you go the the bathroom normally and get relief, i never seem to get the true normal feeling of relief, always feelings like a sensation i need to go in varying degrees.Also i have some lower abdominal pressure sensation from time to time.

I went and saw my urologist today, and he gave me a months supply of cipro and booked me for a urodynamics test.I had a cystoscopy done, under local anesthetic in the hospital, my urologist said yesterday my bladder looked normal to him.One thing i forgot to ask how much liquid was put into my bladder, should i have asked this? I think i have done all i can to see what is causing this problem, maybe the urodynamics test can show me what is the cause.The intern person who i gave info to at the start of the appointment said ic is possible in men, but highly unlikely.I told her i was concerned about that, i also mentioned sometimes, i feel like om only getting out a little bit of urine when i go to the bathroom, and other weeks i am able to get out more, about a cups worth and more.

So the urologist said well we want to give you a months worth of cipro, as one of the tests i had showed up a small infection at the start.So he said it could be a low grade infection, that is why he is giving me this months worth of cipro.

It takes about four months or even more for the urodynamics test.I guess i will have to wait for that.If that doesnt show up anything, he said well you just might have to live with this.I just cant accept that, there has got to be a reason for the problem im having.If after i get this test and it shows nothing up, should i persue another urologist?

[ICNDonna]

It is absolutely possible for a man to have IC. It's more common in women, but there are several men who post on the boards regularly who have been diagnosed with IC.

It sounds like your uro is still working with you to find a diagnosis, but if you aren't feeling confidence in him, it may be time to seek a second opinion.

Sending an encouraging hug,
Donna

[CoyoteMystro]

I'd seek a second opinion before doing anymore tests with him if he's already stated that you'll just have to live with this if he can't remotely help you.

You need to find a Urologist that is determined to help you find relief, not someone that just wants a payment whether he fixes you or not.

RKO, I chatted with you a long time ago.. How have things been since?

[rko]

hiya Coyote, thanks for replying.Yeah well since i talked to you not a whole lot has changed. I do feel better on some days and worse on others.What bothers me overall is what is the cause of this problem, and what can be done to help me.Its taking a toll on me moreso emotionally, i have frightening thoughts on days i dont feel so hot.I just want a form of relief, and want to feel like my bladder is completely empty, you know that normal feeling.I live with my folks and i know they are frustrated in not knowing what to do, and seeing me not get answers or relief to this uncomfortable problem.I also have a problem with social phobia previous to this and this just makes me feel worse.

Would it be wise to get out and meet people to help my mood and take my mind of this to some extent?I dont have much of a life, mostly at home.I just wish i could get my health to what is was or close to it.

I might not have mentioned but i am around 250-60 pounds at 5'9, could being overweight like i am cause bladder problems such as this? Previous to this i have had a lower back problem that has not gone away to this day.I wonder if that has any bearing on this, as my low back does feel enflamed on some days, could the inflammation go through to your bladder? I would say my bladder is opainful, but i do feel some sort of pressure in that area, and almost a feeling of heat.

Donna what would you suggest i do, should i follow this uro with the test or which? I just want some concrete proof of what it is i am suffering from.Its not so hard to ask in todays modern medicine.You should at least be granted the right to know what problem you are suffering from, instead of going on not knowing and it tormenting you.

[rko]

Sorry i meant to say my bladder is not painful, just a feeling of pressure on some days and not as apparent on other days.

[ICNDonna]

You might ask your uro to humor you and test you for IC --- that way t least you will know.

And being extremely overweight can be a problem for your urinary system, just as it is a strain on all body systems.

Have you talked with a counselor? That could be a very good step for you --- it sounds very much like you could use some help in dealing with your physical problems. I know during my early years with IC, counselling was a life saver for me.

Warm hugs,
Donna

[tigger_gal]

I think I would too seek a second opinion, I was dx'ed by one uro with IC and he told me well there is nothing you can do you have to learn to live with the pain, the urgency and frequency. Now I have Dr Peters, he's god I will swear to it.. I have the interstim now and I have to deal with pain now but... that better than all 3.
hugs
Brat