frequent uti

[lenie4913]

I'm getting bladder infections about every 18 days and this started 2 years ago.   Cultures are always done and it's always  a different bacteria than what I was just treated for.  I also have IC.  I've had a bladder distension, botox and just a week ago another cystoscopy.  I watched on the screen during cystoscopy and doctor showed me a red spot, looked to be the size of a quarter on the bladder.  He said if this antibiotic doesn't get rid of the spot he might have to get a piece of it.  I've been on preventive antibiotics and still get an infection while I'm on them. My original urologist told me he has done everything he can for me so I'm now going to a new urologist. He's a urologist and oncologist and comes highly recommended.  When I first told him my story of UTI's maybe he doubted me.  When he looked at my records from previous doctor he said, "Wow you weren't kidding, you've had just about every bacteria".  I've handled this pretty well up to now.  Now it has me depressed. I get teary  eyed when someone asks how I'm doing with the bladder problem.  Two years of this and can't find a solution.  What are your thoughts.


This discussion is related to 3 uti's this month help!!!.

[calamfred]

The red spot on your bladder is probably a Hunner's Ulcer, or glomerulation, both of which can go along with IC. I don't think antibiotics will make them go away, as they aren't infection. The glomerulations are pinpoint bleeding areas. The Hunner's ulcers are distinctive areas of inflammation, and are often round shaped. I have IC, my cystoscopies have the red areas (glomerulations) and Hunner's ulcers. My bladder capacity is very small, even under anesthesia...so when the Uro is doing a hydrodistension the glomerulations bleed more.
I have only had 2 uti's ever. But I have had 25+ kidney stones due to having RTA (kidney disease, part of my Lupus diagnosis). Just wanted to let you know about the red areas. During my 1st cysto, my Uro did take a biopsy of 1 of the circular red areas, which did show it was a Hunner's ulcer, and I also have the Mast cells that go along with IC. If someone has several Hunner's ulcers, the Dr can laser them off, or cut them out. Especially if they are causing increased IC pain. I have never had mine removed, as they tend to come back, just in a different spot on the bladder, so it just seems a vicious circle to me. But we are all different, and you and your Dr know what is best for you.
I hope you get some relief soon!
Take care,
C

[Millard]

Botox used in the bladder, prevents leaking but also stops voiding.  Are you doing a clean intermittent catheterization?  I'll add this to my "Watch List" and wait for you answer.  Frequent uti's can be setting the table for creating super-bugs (MRSA) in your body if they are not handled properly.

(Are you a SCI?)

Good luck.