Does the urologist have to do uncomfortable tests?

[jen78nc]

I am trying to get an appt with a urologist to find out whats going on with me. Just wondering, what kinds of tests do they do?? Any uncomfortable ones? Thanks all.

[Haysmom3]

The first thing I had to do was a void dairy, a couple of days you write everything and how much you drink and then measure it when you go to the bathroom. That doesn't hurt but it is kind of a pain always peeing into a cup. Then they did urodynamic testing, CMG, this was uncomfortable you tell them when you have the urge to go, then when you feel like you can't hold it anymore at all. I had a cath in during this procedure and after the cath was out had a really hard time peeing. Then I had my hydro but I had that when they did my hysterectomy so I had pain from hysterectomy mostly so I can't tell you the pain level on that afterwards. Then they did a cysto in the office, that was painful. You are awake and they fill your bladder as much as they can and then put a scope in through your urethera. I was in a lot of pain during and for days after this. Everyone is different, some people don't have as much pain with the procedures as others. I have a very limited bladder capicity of only 250 ml max even under anesthesia so I believe this made the procedures worse. Other then the cysto the procedures were uncomfortable not unbearable pain.Good Luck

[amaris]

In my experience with urologists (I've seen 3), the first visit is usually just talking to the dr about my symptoms, what might be causing those symptoms and what types of tests are done to rule out the possibilities. Some of the tests I've had are non-invasive and don't cause any discomfort, such as an ultrasound. Other things such as the potassium sensitivity test were uncomfortable.
I ask the dr or nurse to clearly explain any tests, preferably on a visit before the test is going to be done so that I'm more comfortable with what is going on before it actually happens. I also ask beforehand about pain medication options available to me following a test that might be uncomfortable.
Whether uncomfortable or not, the type of testing done will depend on what disease the dr is trying to test you for. I think most dr try to do the least invasive and uncomfortable testing first.
I hope your visit goes well.
Amaris

[Annie2]

Jen,

The tests urologists use will vary according to the urologist's personal preferences and the symptoms you are experiencing. All possible causes for the symptoms you are experiencing must be checked. As Amaris described, many of us found the first visit to a urologist was, for the most part, a discussion of symptoms with the doctor. At that time, the doctor determines which tests he believes would be appropriate in your situation.

The Patient Handbook on this site is a wonderful information resource. If you suspect you may have IC, I would also suggest the book The Interstitial Survival Guide by Robert Moldwin, MD. It is an excellent book full of information on IC, diagnostic tests, treatments and medicatiions used, etc. Reading and learning all you can about IC and other bladder disorders before you see the uro might be very helpful to you so you are better prepared to discuss diagnostic tests and treatments with your doctor.

Making a list of questions and taking it with you to your appointment helps to remind you of all the things you want to ask. It also helps to take notes about the doctor's answers so you won't forget all the doctor tells you.

As the others described, some of the tests cause no discomfort and some can be uncomfortable. Asking questions about each test and reading about them helps to inform you of what to expect.

Have you tried the IC diet yet? Many of us find the diet is the best self-help tool we have. You will find information about it in the ICN Patient Handbook. Even if it turns out you do not have IC, modifying your diet and eliminating bladder irritants could help to reduce the symptoms you are experiencing.

Annie

[Dixiefireball]

read about the test and treatments of ic i believe the website is www.ic-network.com/handbook you can click on the links there and go to what you want to look at. Jill keeps it pretty well up to date.