Fiercely Independent Pam

Tag: stupid bladder

  • “B” is For Botox and Bladder: The Next Chapter!

    Almost three weeks ago I went for my first Botox injections series for my bladder. To catch you up the short story is after my hysterectomy in April of 2025, I lost the ability to fully empty by bladder by “normal” means. Sometimes it was ok and I could push out urine, other times it was completely impossible. So, I learned how to self-catherize using and in and out procedure each time. I do this 4-7 times a day depending on fluid intake. In addition, sometimes urgency is a major issue leading to leaks and messes.

    I am currently on two different medications to help as well: Gemtesa and Vesicare, both of which have helped tremendously, but I knew I was missing something else. In talking with my incredible Urologist at MUSC, he suggested Botox. I had used Botox in the past for headaches and didn’t have any adverse reactions so I thought this was a good idea.

    I had to wait for an appointment availability, but the time went quickly and soon enough my appointment happened. The process was done in the doctor’s office and the process was smooth but not the most comfortable. I will have a Telehealth appointment in a few weeks to follow up and then continue doing the injections every 5-6 months.

    Now for the positive… I was told it would take 2-4 weeks before I saw the results of the Botox injections, and right on cue, in the last couple of days I have seen great progress. I am now just waking up once per night and the urgency/leakage issues are almost non-existent! I am super happy thus far and the less than comfortable procedure was totally worth it for these results.

    I am so thankful for my honest, straight forward, and kind urologist a MUSC. He has helped me so much and his staff is wonderful. I am thankful for the nurse who took so much time to teach me how to self-cath and for his honesty that this could get better, but most likely not go away.

    I am tempted to place a “sorry for the graphic information” type thing, but also feel like this is my story. I can’t change what is happening to me, but only can change how I react. So, if you don’t like me talking about my bladder issues, I understand and more posts about dogs are coming! lol!

  • The Trouble- Making Bladder

    Before my hysterectomy last April, I only had one episode of bladder (uti infections) issues. Now, it’s a full time job. Yesterday, I went to MUSC in Charleston to see my urologist who is great! He put me on a 7 step plan for straightening everything out.

    The most important step is to self-catherize more often. This means I have to give up the lift on my toilet and struggle to get up from it. For now, I am keeping the same catheters but if this plan fails, then I will start using a closed system that prevents infections better.

    I am also starting an estrogen cream to prevent future infections. I was told when I asked, that I shouldn’t have any symptoms from using the cream. I am all for not being on daily antibiotics!

    I was also strongly encouraged to do the Botox treatments. I hesitated last time I was scheduled mainly because I didn’t think my condition was “bad”enough. I have learned that it certainly is and the Botox will make a big difference. I am never one who is scared by needles or procedures, but the idea of 60+ injections into my bladder with only local anesthesia, doesn’t thrill me!

    I also have to go for a ct scan to accomplish two things. The first is to confirm that the kidney stone is truly gone. The second is to ensure nothing else is going on, especially with my bladder. Luckily, I can do the scan here in Myrtle Beach and I don’t have to go back to Charleston for it!

    See, a full-time job I tell you! When I am not going to an appointment, I am dealing with the various medications and/or catheters. Wish me luck!

  • A Little Setback: A Return to the ER!

    It was bound to happen! Last night I found myself in the ER after spending the day trying to urinate but barely able to even with self cathing. After about 12 hours of this, I decided that I should go get it checked out.

    It was interesting that with the bladder scan, I didn’t have a ridiculous amount of fluid in my bladder, but enough to cause pressure. The ER dr ordered some fluids to flush out any bad stuff and then we cathed again. The urine showed a bladder infection so I was put on antibiotics, given some pain medicine and sent home. All in all, it wasn’t a terrible visit, but still less than desirable!

    I am now on antibiotics for the bladder infection and they also called in some medicine that will help with the spasms. I am looking forward to seeing the urologist tomorrow to get his input on the situation.

    I am so thankful that I was able to take an Uber to the ER as opposed to needing to call an ambulance. My mobility is so much better. I appreciate how far I’ve come and know that it was because of all my hard work!

    This little setback isn’t a major deal, just frustrating! I am hoping that everything heals correctly and without any other trouble.