Any good Urologists in Oregon?

[butterfly_wings]

Does anyone know of a good Urologist or specialist in Oregon that deals and knows IC? I live in Salem, OR and I need a good Urologist. I have insurance with Kaiser but I am at the point where I will go anywhere in the state. Kaiser has really disappointed me. I have had nurses be very rude to me and tell me I am not an urgent person, they do not call me back, and two Urologists had no idea what I was talking about when I discussed IC treatments and asked questions. Although, one of them was able to diagnose me with IC by biopsies in 2008. I need someone who knows IC and all the treatments available and hopefully be faster to get help from. I can't do this anymore, my bladder feels on fire. I feel so alone and I have nobody who can help me. The recent Urologist I have claims I do not have IC because it's too rare for someone my age (I'm 21). Well it happens and I have biopsies to prove I have IC. I am on IC diet, Elmiron for over two months, Aqua Marina 30c (homeopathic remedies), Detrol LA 4mg, Cystoprotek (when I can it effects my IBS so I have to stop a lot), and Vicaden when needed.

[ICNDonna]

I live in Eugene and have had good luck, but I have to make a change now because my uro moved out of state. Since you have Kaiser, you might want to check the Portland area where you could have coverage. Since you've been on elmiron only a short time, I suggest you give it a few more months before you give up on it --- it can take six months or longer to become effective.

It does sound like you are receiving appropriate treatment, but I know how frustrating it can be to have to deal with office staff.

Warm hugs,
Donna

[butterfly_wings]

Dear Donna,
Thank you for the reply. If you don't mind me asking I've read that you have had IC for some time now. How do you keep it under control (such as treatments, meds, foods, etc)? Do you still have bad days? I would like to know from someone who has dealt with IC for some time that life and the injury does get better.

[dyno]

Hi,

I am sure Donna would respond back to you but she will be away from the board for a few days. She had some neck/back surgery today.

I have had IC for over 35 years or so now... I lose track of time. Anyway, every one responds to treatments differently. For me diet is very important. If you aren't familiar with it you will find a link in my signature line.

It has also been trial and error to find out what works for me.

Right now I am taking Vistaril/Hydroxyzine paomate, Glucosamine/MSM and I follow the diet closely. As soon as I can afford to a I would like to add some Desert Harvest Aloe Vera to it.

Due to allergies I couldn't take some of the medications that help others so I have to find what I could take and works for me.

Most of us find that but it just takes tiime. Hang in there.

[butterfly_wings]

Thank Jolene for replying to my posting. Its nice to hear from people who have delt with IC for a long time because it shows that things get worked out down the road.

[wildgirl1979]

I dont know where you want to drive, but Bend Urology here in Bend, OR was AWESOME! Well, so far from what I have seen. Kicker is they aren't contracted with my health insurance company, so it isnt cheap. But at this point I have been through so many doctors, I'll pay the money to get a dignose and treatment!

Bend Urology Associates LLC: Takla Nora V MD was who I saw. She knew right away, and actually took the time to talk to me. She gave me various treatments and suggested a book to read. I have been to a lot of doctors, and she seemed like she cared. Of course, I only had one appointment, but I was impressed. She knew right away. If my symptoms don't heal within a week, than I am to go back in for medication therapy of some sorts.

[ICNDonna]

I know it's been awhile since you posted, but I thought I would share that my IC was diagnosed 35 years ago. I am fortunate in being in the group who is helped by hydrodistentions and have had over 40 since diagnosis. I seem to have settled in to about every 12 to 14 months between procedures now. I do follow my IC diet and do occasionally have flares. This morning I am flaring, but I know why --- what I did was stupid, but I think we're allowed to be stupid once in a while. I was at a dinner meeting last night and drank bottled water without reading the label --- it had additives --- I know better! The good thing is that if I drink a lot today, I should be okay by evening.

The urology clinic where I go is in Springfield, about 45 minutes away. My original uro retired five years ago, the one I chose after that retired two years later. I changed to one of the doctors who looks like she is about 20, thinking there would be no worries about her retirement soon --- last November she and her husband moved out of state! I have decided who I will see when I have a need --- he's someone I know.

Donna

[Mandabear]

I'm 18, I have IC, Pelvic floor dysfunction, IBS and Fibromyalgia. I had quite a struggle finding a urologist that understood my IBS and Fibromyalgia as well, and how my IC meds sometimes affected me poorly in those areas. Luckily, after several other urologists I found - Dr. Jaroslava Zoubek, MD.
Contact info -
Urologic Consultants
9135 South West Barnes Road, Suite 663
Portland, OR 97225

She is incredible! She has a warm, compassionate personality and is more understanding of what I'm going through than any other doctor I have seen. I strongly recommend her.

[JMBrimmer]

I now live in Klamath Falls, Oregon. I was diagnosed about 12 years ago, while living in California. In CA I was seeing an amazing urogynecologist in San Leandro California. She was the one who diagnosed and began my treatment plan. Unfortunately, she moved to Reno, NV. Since moving to Klamath, I have seen a couple gynecologists and a urologist, until he moved. None of these really seem to KNOW much about IC, even though they say they do. It seems they have heard of it, but have no suggestions or comments about my ongoing medications or any need for change. Maybe the reason is, it seems mine is very light,,,or it is because I keep my IC ion check pretty well with diet (NO chocolate, no caffeine, wine rarely, very little spicey or acidic foods) along with Elmiron and Atarax at night. I believe the most important action I have taken, other than watching diet is drinking Alkalanizing tea daily. I can test my urine without the tea (acidic) and with it (better balanced at 7 or more). I have found that I have less flair ups, better control, and less pain if I drink a cup each morning and sometimes in evening. I would suggest everyone try it.