BCG help bladder washout???

Dear Milzz49,  

My name is Alison, and I am one of the Cancer Information Nurses with Macmillan Cancer support. Thank you for getting in touch with us and I hope you find the online community a helpful and supportive environment.

I'm sorry to hear about your grandad's discomfort. BCG Treatment can sometimes cause pain and urgency to urinate, especially if the catheter insertion was difficult or if there was a bladder washout.

A bladder washout is a procedure where a small amount of fluid is used to ensure the catheter is correctly placed in the bladder. This can sometimes cause discomfort, especially if the bladder is already irritated from previous treatments.  It's not uncommon for patients to experience pain or urgency to urinate after such procedures.

Here are a few steps your grandad can take:

Discuss with the Nurse or Doctor: It's important to inform the medical staff about the pain and discomfort your grandad experienced. They might be able to adjust the procedure or provide pain relief options.

Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relief or prescribed medication might help manage the groin pain. Ensure your grandad stays hydrated and avoids irritants like caffeine and spicy foods.

Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on his symptoms. If the pain persists or worsens, contact his healthcare provider immediately.

Next Appointment: Discuss his concerns with the nurse or doctor before the next treatment. They might be able to take extra precautions to minimize discomfort.

It's understandable that he's hesitant about the next treatment, but communicating his concerns to the healthcare team can help ensure he receives the care he needs with minimal discomfort.

Best wishes

Alison W, Cancer Information Nurse Specialist

You can also 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.

Ref/JF

Hi Alison, 

Thank you so much for getting back we were worried because my grandad has made friends with some other men who are getting the treatment and they have never had the bladder washout ! it's good to know that it is a normal procedure !, thank you for your advice x