MS and Catheters

[socrates2k1]

I went to my Urologist yesterday and had some tests done, the results of which were:
A "lazy bladder" (which fails to contract), i.e. catheterization.

I had a severe neck injury, back in 2009, which resulted in severe neck trauma, a chest contusion, and dislocated left thumb.  

MRI's revealed possible MS, which was later confirmed.

The after effects of the injury, was an inability to realize my bladder was full and needed to be emptied.  
So it was suggested that I attempt to empty my bladder every 1-1/2 to 2 hours.

Yesterday, I was told, it was very common for MS Patients (also people with severe neck injuries), to have to use Catheters

I was advised to use a catheter 3-4 times a day, beginning with last night.

Q?  Do many of YOU have to use catheters, in your daily Life?

[maestro1959]

I was having constant bladder/kidney infections due to urinary retention.  My urologist suggested getting an implant called Interstim.  I had it done April 2, and I am very happy with the outcome.  My bladder is now emptying every time.  He prefers to try this before Botox, as he considers that injection a "last resort" option.

Best wishes.

Most sincerely,
Beth

[candy158]

I too use catheters, and have done for just over a year.  It does easier, though, sometimes the infections that I get are troublesome.  

Just take good care preparing, and you will do just fine.  I remember a lovely someone on this forum who said to me " once you get over the ICK factor, it is just like brushing your teeth", and ya know, she was right.

One final thing, I do find that at night with using the cath, you don't have to get up as often so you can stay in bed and be comfy.

Hope this helps,
Candy

[resmed]

I've cathed for over a year, maybe two. I didn't want to, but no matter how hard I tried to "press out" every last drop, I was retaining. As you know that leads to lots of trouble. My feelings about it when I started was huge relief. (no pun intended) I didn't have to worry about getting to the bathroom on time or finding one where ever I was. I still wear pads but that's for leaks. So no worries. Life is good.

[PeninaD]

On the other hand, neither dehydration, nor urinary tract/bladder/kidney infections do anything good for your MS, either.  Look out for fevers, take all hygiene/sterile precautions when you cath, and best of health to you.

[socrates2k1]

Thank YOU both, for your quick responses, I appreciate it.

When I had neck surgery last year, they told me I might have to catheter every day, but I got out of it, with my primary doctor.

I was terrified with the thought of having to catheter every day, and I have noticed since I returned from the Doctor, I have avoided drinking, even though I know it's not the way to go.  I'm working on it, but I still hate the idea of having to do this (catheterize) daily.

May Our God Bless each of YOU, in His Mighty Way, today and every day.

--- Socrates2k1 (aka Stan)

[torikat32]

I cath as needed but thats going to change had urodynamics testing done friday and now have retention so will be cathing 6 to 8 times a day. I will have botox done again in July so after that I wont have a choice since it numbs the bladder and you lose the feeling to go.

once you get the hang of doing it it will be second nature to you.

best wishes
kat

[essdipity]

Hey there, friend. Yes, quite a few of us have catheters as a standard feature. A number of years ago I had urodynamic testing and was found to have a neurogenic bladder, with lots of nerve signals messed up. I had to cath for a few months but luckily that abated. Now I just have to be careful to go on a schedule whether or not nature is calling.

Cathing will never be fun but it's something we get used to, just part of the drill. I'm sure that will be true for you too.

It's extremely important that bladders be totally emptied regularly. Otherwise infections can be serious, and sometimes life-threatening.

ess