BCG After Effects

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Hi  I recently finished 15 doses of BCG treatment for non invasive low grade grade 2 bladder cancer.  Prior to this I had 6 week course of mitomycin.  The mitomycin made me ill during and for some time after treatment.  BCG treatment my joints started to ache and my back pain that I normally suffer increased.  I mentioned this during treatment and went to GP who did do blood tests referred me me to physio and now waiting for MRI scan because pain in lower back is really bad, hips are affected but the joint pain in rest of body is not great either despite Dr upping painkillers, gabapentin and I already take anti inflammatory meds.  I'm also a type 1 diabetic and just had feet checked due to the pain in those too.  Dr is aware but as joint pain is not associated with BCG treatment its overlooked as a cause.  I really need to speak to someone that can help me I'm a prisoner in my body it's bad enough having a weak bladder without this on top.  My life has ground to a halt, I can't walk far, I don't sleep well, constantly tired.  Please help.

  • Dear  

    Thanks for getting in touch during what sounds like an incredibly tough time for you. I’m Linda one of the nurses from our support line.

    In your post you mention that you have seen your GP, and it does sound that they are trying to help with the symptoms you have. When you write Dr is aware of joint pain I am not sure if you mean your GP or if you are referring to your consultant.

    You also write that you need to speak with someone that can help you.

    I wonder if you would consider calling the support line on the number below. This will allow us to ask a little more about your situation and look at how we can best support you or make suggestions of where support might come from.

    You can speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email

    Best wishes

    Linda, Cancer Information Nurse Specialist 

    Ref:LM/LJ