Botox and Self-Catheterization
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Archives1
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Hi, I’ve had bladder Botox injections over the past 6 years for OAB and urge incontinence, I found it very helpful although it did not cure the incontinence it made it so leakage was not so heavy. I was having complete voids but now find that the bladder only half empty’s. I did not realise my bladder wasn’t emptying properly until I started getting serious UTIs and a major kidney infection and urosepsis. So now I self catheterise twice daily. Unfortunately I still have to wear tape on briefs but I have learned to live with that now. I was scheduled to have another bout of injections in April however the pandemic has put a stop to that and I have no idea when I will be going in for a further procedure. Back in the betterdry now and the forcite am/pm max absorbency briefs. Really hope I can get another procedure soon as it gets me down a bit.
Archives1
Staff member
I get Botox injections every four or five months. I usually have to self cath for most of the time between, which is partly due to the Botox but may also be related to benign prostate enlargement.
In my case, cathing is a nothing little procedure. It took me a few days to get used to the sensation and not hurt from it, and since then it's been no big deal. I've had only one UTI since I've been cathing.
Not everyone has as easy a time of it as I have, though.
In my case, cathing is a nothing little procedure. It took me a few days to get used to the sensation and not hurt from it, and since then it's been no big deal. I've had only one UTI since I've been cathing.
Not everyone has as easy a time of it as I have, though.
Archives1
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@gwillie I get an extra huge (for the stingy U.S.) dose of Botox when I get injections (200cc). I’ve never had to self-catheterize. Here they start you at 100cc and may not be willing to increase the amount. I’ve read that the UK, Canada, and Australia start at 300cc. Perhaps you can ask to start at 100cc to see how you do.
Archives1
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snow said:
Hey Snow,
Urologists start us in the UK on 100ui to see how we fare with the drug. I asked to skip the 200ui opting for the full, 300ui next time as I really felt the benefit from just 100ui. It felt like my bladder had gone back to how I was when I was young, fit and healthy.
Archives1
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@laalaauk Good to know! Yes, Botox injections are easily the most effective treatment I’ve had. I can understand why those who end up having to self-cath hate them. I’m so glad that doesn’t happen to me. My only problem with the injections is how expensive they are. But fortunately this year, I’ve met my out-of-pocket max with my insurance, so I’ll be able to get them for free; one set within this month, then another set in December. They’ll last until at least April 2021, whew!
Archives1
Staff member
I have just had the date through for my repeat procedure and having to self isolate for 2 weeks before I go in, also need the Covid test a few days before the procedure. I don’t mind self catching. My ic calms down a fair bit after the procedure although I still need to wear protection. It really does help.
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