Haven't posted in a very long time. I lurk on the board to see how others are doing and read interesting posts.
Earlier this week had blood and clots in urine. Second day could not urinate and went to ER. After CT scan and ultrasound it was determined I had a large blood clot lodged where the urethra was reconnected to the bladder after RP. ER staff resolved and inserted a catheter that I had to wear until seeing a urologist two days later (brought back BAD memories of my ten days post-surgery seven and a half years ago
Of course, concerns were bladder cancer or prostate cancer recurrence. Urologist did bladder scan (also no fun), found no cancer, but did say I had "radiation cystitis" from SRT. He explained it was like the bladder now had "varicose veins" due to radiation "fry" that became irritated and bled. Prescript
ion is drinking lots of water for the rest of my life and avoiding food and drink that irritate the bladder. Also said he saw urethra constriction caused by scarring that might need to be addressed some day.
I'm catheter-free right now and doing much better, though my urethra is very sore and urinating is slow and painful (just like after catheter removal following surgery- another "revisiting the past").
Just wanted to see if any SRT brothers had similar experiences and if there are any secrets to avoid bladder irritation going forward. Take care...