I'll do the best I can here.
Kindasad said:
Hello, I’ve been recently diagnosed with this, and I’m not sure how to cope. The doctor at the ER that diagnosed me referred me to a uro-Gyn and a few clinics, however, none can see me until March and I’m not sure how I’m suppose to make it until then. With how severe my symptoms are now, I am unable to work, see friends, etc. and I feel completely alone.
How do you all cope, pass the time, or if you work, how do you manage that? I’ve struggled with depression most of my life, and this new ailment is worsening the depression, as I can’t see myself living a good life like this and I feel very hopeless. Thank you for your time and have a good day!
Edit: I’ve been skimming the internet and a lot of stories I read are “this ruined my life and I’m unhappy” which is understandable, but if you have any “there are bad days, but some days I can cope well” stories, please feel free to share, I’d appreciate it!
Hi, I'm new to this forum, but not to the basic issues that affect the people here. I don't know if I have OAB, a degenerative neurological condition, ptsd or whatever. I can tell you about my life and how I don’t let these issues limit me.
I also feel alone in a sense, but only because I don't talk to anyone close to me about this. As far as living my life, as normally as possible, I continue to do the work I've done throughout my life with the exception of restrictions associated with arthritis pain. I continue repairing plumbing, electrical, doing carpentry, small construction jobs, auto mechanics and much more.
How do I cope? Well, I accept it because I just can't accept taking drug after drug with empty promises and many side effects. So, I accept that I have one more burden in my daily (and nightly) routine that most people don't. The part that really bothers me most is trying to figure out how I'll ever get in another relationship again.
How do I manage this and work? Or shopping trips? Various levels of capacity absorbent products....ok, diapers. That’s what they are. They're also just another kind of underwear. All in how you look at it. You do get used to it. It just takes time. Took me more time to get used to it mentally than the physical sensation of wearing one. The bulk between my legs took literally about an hour to get used to.
The mental/emotional aspect takes time. Nobody really notices. They're so wrapped up in their own lives they really don't have time to notice what you might be wearing for underwear. Really. I don't think the "crinkle" is really as noticeable as everybody thinks it is. As far as I can tell, I don't think anyone has ever realized it with me.
My work can have me trapped in spaces that many would find claustrophobic or at heights many would never go to. I can't be running to a toilet every half hour. And I cannot accept a constant wet spot on my pants from the continuous leak.
So, accepting the hand I've been dealt, I choose to move on with my life. I refuse to stay at home "chained to a toilet".
As far as your friends, I'd like to think if they're really good friends, they'd understand and be supportive.
I'll say this in conclusion.
I have incontinence, I refuse to let it have me.
