what to do from here?

[kathyg]

I have an apt. on 5/19 with a new gynecologist who specializes in urology after going for a cystoscopy with an urologist 2 weeks ago. The uro found mild chronic inflammation during my cystoscopy and put me on macrobid and utira as needed. Prior to that, I was on Cipro as they had found trace bacteria in my urine a month ago during an ER visit for what I thought was an UTI. The uro used lidocaine prior to my cystoscopy to numb me and water to look in my bladder. I felt like my symptoms had left immediately and seemed to be slowly making progress for about three days. I told him of my progress and he gave me more utira-c and a script for macrobid if I felt worse. He did say that if I had IC it may be tricky to feel completely better. I felt it was OK to resume relations with my waiting husband and felt awful afterwards, like a swollen feeling and back to urgency. Now, I don't know if I should call back the uro to have him look in my bladder again or if I should wait until 5/19 for the new doctor? I am unsure if the GYN will be able to look in my bladder. The uro was very nice and the cystoscopy did not hurt. I might add I have taken one baclofen at night before bed and this has helped me sleep and get up less. I had this in cabinet for back pain. My husband asked me today when this will all be over as he is ready to get back to being intimate and I am feeling at a loss. I appreciate any advice as 5/19 seems a long way away. Thanks, Kathy

[SharonA]

Kathy...Are you seeing this new doctor on the 19th to be diagnosed? If this is the case, why not call both doctors and ask if either of them can do tests and give you a diagnosis. Ask the gyn and the uro if they would be able to do a Cystoscopy/Hydrodistention under Anesthesia in a hospital or a PST (Potassium Sensitivity Test) in the office for diagnostic purposes. Often times, an in office Cystoscopy will not be able to diagnose IC because the doctor cannot see the bladder wall well enough without distending the bladder past the point where it would be very painful. That is the reason for the Anesthesia. Some doctors also use the process of eliminating everything that can cause your symptoms until there is nothing left but IC.

It can take a while to get a final diagnosis. I hope your husband will continue being patient. I know this is frustrating both of you. (((Hugs)))