Testing Methods If Your Bladder Incontinence Is More Serious
Most of the 20 million people in the United States who suffer from urinary incontinence can be treated and cured or receive great relief from their problem. Some of those may not be helped or there may be other signs and symptoms that signal a more severe problem. If all resources have failed to help you, or you have other symptoms your doctor may recommend a cystocopy. If you have recurring urinary tract infections, find blood in your urine, or have painful urination your doctor may recommend this procedure. Other more serious signs and symptoms include unusual cells found in a urine sample, a need to have a bladder catheter inserted, chronic pelvic pain, or chronic cystitis.
An overactive bladder or urinary blockage may point to a need for further testing. Prostate enlargement and narrowing of the urinary tract may suggest further testing is needed. If a stone is found in the urinary tract or an unusual growth such as a cyst or polyp is found in the urethra. A cystoscope allows the doctor to see inside your bladder and urethra. It features a lens much like a telescope or microscope and allows the doctor to look at the inner surfaces of the urinary tract. The instrument uses flexible glass fibers that send the images to the other end of the tube. It is as thin as a pencil and has a light at the tip.
If your doctor suspects a stone lodged in your urethra, an ureteroscopy could be performed under a general anesthesia. This long, thin instrument will examine the inside the ureter. Most are flexible but some are firmer so the doctor can use it if he finds a stone. The stone can be removed with a small basket at the end of the instrument or by using a laser beam to break the stone into smaller pieces so it can be passed out of your body in your urine. Your doctor will decide which instrument to use after you explain your symptoms. A stent may be left in the ureter to allow drainage after the procedure.
This test is a simple process and usually you can return to your normal activities immediately after the procedure is finished. You will be asked to sign a consent form before the procedure begins, so please, ask your doctor any questions or voice any concerns you may have about the process. A urine sample to test for infection is normally done before the procedure so you should avoid urinating at least an hour before you will be asked for the sample. You will probably be given a local anesthetic so you should arrange for a ride home after the test is completed.
This test normally will only take a few moments and total testing and preparation time should be no longer than 15 to 20 minutes. The cystoscope will be slowly inserted into your urethra and into your bladder. A sterile liquid will be used to fill your bladder and allow it to stretch so the doctor can take a good look at the bladder wall. You may feel some discomfort when your bladder is full but you will be able to empty your bladder immediately after the procedure is completed. The testing may take a little longer if a stone is detected and the doctor decides to dislodge and remove it. A biopsy may also be done while the instrument is still in place.