spiralling downward

[CathyKi]

I have been on a decline for two weeks now. The frequency is driving me out of my mind and I have no idea what has caused this. I was steadly improving and was on my fourth instill. Then I went to a different doctor for a second opinion and he wanted me to try his instill which the only thing different was the sodium bicarb that he included. How could that make me worse where it just won't let up.
Cathy

[ICNDonna]

It's definitely a possibility. You might want to return to your original doctor if you were improving.

Donna

[CathyKi]

I did go back to my original doctor. I only saw him once because this site recommended him and I wanted a second opinion. I have been in horrible shape ever since.

[lisabar36]

Hi, if you were doing good on the first instills, you may want to let the doc know that and they sometimes will use the same formula, it seems like alot of them have different amounts they use and I know with mine it depends on the size cath, if they use a larger cath on me I am miserable with spasms and pain. But I stuck with the same formula even with my new doc because that is what helped me the most. Good luck and I hope you start feeling better.

[CathyKi]

What size cath do you use? Mine is a 14. I did my first instill on my own last night. My husband had to help me because I couldn't load the syringe because I have arthritis and my hands are week. Lately I have pain in both elbows at the same time. My elbows were always fine before. It went well and it is really easy. We'll just try to keep everything clean. If I get an infection I will go back to the office. It cost me 144.00 to get set up because you have to buy some things that the insurance doesn't completly cover. The nurses are the ones that convinced me to do it at home. The doctor didn't suggest it.

[lisabar36]

Hi, I could never use a 14. I have used pediatric size 10 and that even bothers me some, unless they are the soft flexible kind, I would for sure discuss with your doctor that you have pain after and see if they would be willing to let you try the the pediatric cath, or order some for you. Good luck! I know some use the 8fr ped feeding tube as a cath, the nurse is trying to order them for me but the 10fr as long as its soft and flexible is fine also.

[sickofmybladder]

I use a 10F catheter - I can't imagine using a 14F ....... Also it could be the sodium bicarb - which does irritate some people - I would call either doctor (whichever one you want to stay with) and have the meds adjusted back.

I hope you feel better soon.