Bladder weakness whilst on Tamoxifen

hi

kegel muscles

drink plenty and hold the flow a few times whilst you pee, that should help you identify the right muscles

do not skimp on drinking fluids or eating fruit and veggies that supplement fluids, in fact eat more of those, more fluids helps flush out germs that cause infections

sexual wellness is important and if you don't have a partner you can find devices (toys) online that can stimulate the right muscles, look for reputable companies with medical grade credentials and squeeze.

Also try a different brand of Tamoxifen, I know this isn't always easy as pharmacists can't always get hold of different brands but a change is (could be) as good as a rest.

All these tips are low risk as far as worsening the symptoms 

Worrying will exacerbate the problem of urge incontinence, try relaxation techniques 

I try and walk 6000-8000 steps each day, or 5 out of 7. Walk briskly to boost circulation, overall fitness reduces the effects of age on our bodies. 

Lastly talk to your GP about a break or possible dose reduction. ? 

I was annoyed that nobody told me about long term chemo side effects such as toilet issues, I had to revert to pregnancy mode and remember which shops and car parks had public loos for at least a year, initially I was having to stop on the 45 minutes journey to the office, nightmare. 

I had Her2+++ breast cancer so have no experience directly of tamoxifen, this is a general experience based offer of some tips. 

what have you tried so far ?

Carolyn

xxx

Hi, I'm at he end of chemo and due to start radio and then Letrozole. I'm already having recurring cystitis and have a weak bladder at the moment. My oncologist has referred me to a urologist. They often have very different approaches to dealing with long term bladder issues and can find possible infection that doctors can't (those dip sticks don't work!). They can put you on long term prophylactic antibiotics and things. I would push to be referred to a urologist if you are worried! Good luck, it's awful isn't it? 

Thankyou shall book in and hopefully get referral , yes makes you feel really low regards Lucy x 

Thankyou for your useful tips , I am doing some but will try all x

Trying to stay off antibiotics and training my bladder just seems year on year to be getting weaker .

Feel old before my time 6 years since chemo but effects last on the body on and on .

I think a lot of people are silently suffering as gp surgery full and referrals difficult x 

Thankyou again good to know not just me Lucy x 

Just as an aside/extra, my yoga tutor advocates pelvic floor exercises to EVERYONE! Hold for as long as possible, once a day, then after a short rest, 10 rapid ‘flicks’ and this should be done faithfully each and every day.....

have to say, she’s right and I do try to do so. But yes, I’m on Letrozole and do get infections, roughly 1+ per year.

Hope you get some answers....

Hugs xxx