Struggling with Bladder Issues
As a 19-year-old male, I have always prided myself on having good control over my bladder. From what I can remember, there were rare instances when I experienced an urgent need to relieve myself, sometimes managing to go an entire day without a bathroom break—an observation I suspect may also be tied to my autism. However, over the past year, I have encountered serious difficulties with my bladder. Below is a summary of my experience: On May 6th, I began to notice something was off; I found it increasingly difficult to manage my bladder's urges, which was unusual for me. By May 16th, discomfort persisted. I was still uncertain about what was happening. On May 21st, the situation escalated, leading to intense discomfort, with the sensation of needing to urinate every five minutes even though nothing was actually coming out. Through June, I underwent numerous tests—dip tests, bloodwork, stool tests, and urine analyses—through the NHS, but none provided clear answers. Towards the end of June, there was a small improvement, although the urge to urinate remained. From July 14th to the 23rd, I traveled to Portugal, where my bladder issues were still present, albeit less severe than before. However, on August 9th, my symptoms returned with a vengeance that lasted into September. On August 11th, I went back to the NHS and was told I would be referred to a urology specialist, but the referral never materialized. So, I decided to seek private care instead. The NHS doctor recommended I eliminate caffeine from my diet, which I diligently followed. In my appointment with the private urologist, a flow test revealed minimal urine in my bladder yet a dominant urge to urinate. After a thorough examination, he diagnosed me with an overactive bladder and prescribed Mirabegron Astellas 50mg. While this medication gradually improved my symptoms, I still experienced mild urges. Between January 7th and 15th, my problems worsened significantly. I found myself needing to urinate every five to twenty minutes, even while on medication. On January 17th, I consulted with my urologist again. He advised me to cut out carbonated beverages and switch to water or squash, which I complied with, yet my condition continued to deteriorate. By January 27th, I had an urgent phone consultation with my urologist, who then prescribed Solifenacin Succinate 10mg to take alongside the Mirabegron. This new medication assisted by delaying the urgency until my bladder was fuller, but the persistent sensation of needing to go every ten minutes remained. Additionally, it introduced discomfort due to the increased effort required to urinate. This ordeal has negatively impacted my mental well-being and severely hindered my ability to partake in daily activities. I find myself at a crossroads, as my doctor has suggested options like bladder Botox or self-catheterization—neither of which I am willing to consider. Should I return to the NHS and pursue a second opinion?
Answers (1)
2/4/2026, 2:30:46 PM
OpenHealth AI
I understand that you are experiencing significant challenges with your bladder control, which have impacted both your physical comfort and mental well-being. Navigating this situation is understandably frustrating, especially after multiple tests and treatment options. Let’s focus on the most important aspects of your situation and possible next steps.
Main Points
- Ongoing Bladder Issues: You are experiencing persistent urgency to urinate, even with medication, which is affecting your daily life.
- Impact on Mental Health: The stress and anxiety caused by your bladder issues are significant and need to be addressed alongside the physical symptoms.
- Preference for Treatment: You are not currently willing to consider more invasive options like Botox or catheterization.
Explanation
Overactive bladder (OAB) can cause intense urges to urinate, frequent urination, and sometimes discomfort. You've been proactive by seeking medical help and trying various treatments; however, finding a solution can take time. It's important to remember that both your physical health and mental well-being are intertwined, and addressing the anxiety stemming from your condition is crucial.
Next Steps
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Document Symptoms: Keep a detailed diary of your symptoms, noting how frequently you feel the urge to urinate, any triggers, and how you respond to medications. This can help you and your healthcare providers identify patterns and triggers.
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Consider a Second Opinion: Since you're feeling that current treatments aren’t fully effective, seeking a second opinion might be beneficial. A different healthcare provider can offer fresh perspectives, potentially leading to alternative treatment options that align with your preferences.
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Assess Mental Well-Being: Given that your condition has affected your mental health, it may be helpful to speak with a mental health professional about the anxiety and stress caused by these symptoms. Techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help manage anxiety related to your condition.
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Explore Alternatives: In addition to continuing medications, discuss with your urologist other non-invasive treatments that may not have been mentioned yet—such as pelvic floor physical therapy, which can help improve bladder control without surgical intervention.
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Regular Follow-Up: Stay in touch with your healthcare providers and follow up regularly to discuss any changes in your symptoms or side effects from medications. This ongoing communication is essential for adjusting your treatment plan effectively.
Please know that you are not alone in this, and there are professionals out there who can help you find relief. Your concerns are valid, and taking these steps may help you feel more empowered and involved in your recovery. Let me know if you need more personal guidance or specific resources!
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