bladder problems

Al Weger (aweger(AT)gte.net)
Fri, 13 Feb 1998 16:51:31 -0800

Once again the subject of bladder/bowel problem comes up. I have a
nuerogenic bladder and got TM in 1962. After living most of life with
the B&B problems, a urologist about 5 years ago suggest I self-cath. For
me it has been a blessing. I cannot tell you how it has changed my life.
I feel confident going places, I no longer worrying about where the
bathroom is and if I will make it there on time. It has become so easy
to self-cath, I can do it almost with my eyes closed.I still have bowel
problems but the bladder is a start.

I continue to get infections from self-cath but I get antibiotics and I
am good as new. I have ultrasounds every 2 years for my kidneys and
bladder. My recent bladder ultrasound showed that I am emptying fine.
When I feel lousy from urinary tract infections, uti's, I still know for
me, it is better than having no control at all.

I recently switced to a self-cath that you throw away after using, $60
for 50, but I hope this will cut down on infections. Also, I called my
insurance company and they have a rider to cover catheters and they are
100% covered. So give your insurance company a call - it is worth it. I
just needed a prescription from my urologist.

I hope this info helps someone.