time to vent again

[Patrick]

On the eighth of October I will have a urinary Botox injection. I last had these injections some twenty-two years ago, and the anesthetic left me helpless for three days afterward. My urologist assured me that the procedure is much more patient friendly now. I hope so. However, I do expect that it will keep me out of circulation for two or three days, which will force me to answer the queries of family, friends, neighbors, and acquaintances. My goal will be to explain truthfully, but not with so much detail that they'll think I'm a hypochondriac. I will need to be honest about my limitations without appealing for their sympathy. Still, the opportunity to strike a blow against the stigma is almost overwhelming. Thank you for your indulgence and support.

[Rope_Wrench]

Hang in there Patrick. You are one of the seasoned vets here and if anyone will make it just fine, it's you. I get it about having to disclose stuff to people you would prefer not to but it is what it is and you will be just fine.
If I may ask, what has changed or is different that you are trying Botox again?

[Patrick]

Thanks, RW. I can deal with bladder spasms when I'm awake; however, they have been increasingly disturbing my sleep, making me a sleep-deprived zombie some days. Free-flow incontinence will be a huge improvement.

[WetDad]

Hi Patrick,
I like your idea of minimalist information. "I'm having a procedure at my doctor's & I might be out of circulation for a few days." Then move on to the next topic. I wish you all the best with this.

[Paul Henry]

Thanks for sharing your life with us Patrick , you are allowed to vent too we all know it is not easy at times .

All the best
Paul Henry

[wayne]

Best of luck Patrick!

[Ellyn]

I’ve now progressed to nearly “free flow” and I have to say that there’s definitely advantages to urine control, as minimal as it might be. I’m still hopeful that this is some cycle or temporary situation but it’s been going on for months now.
I have to be consistently prepared for leakage now!
Getting into and out of the shower
Using the bathroom
Getting dressed and undressed
Making love
Doctors appointments
The list goes on…. We have carpet in our bedroom, which makes things even more critical.
I get your situation Patrick, but careful what you wish for.

[Patrick]

I had free flow after my sphincterotomy in August, 1999. So, I am familiar with free flow management. It will necessitate some adjustments; however, my situation now will make those adjustments welcome.

[realworldic]

hang in there! friends and family don't need to know all the details, you know the ones to trust so trust your gut and don't bother worrying about the others!

[docjohn]

Thanks, RW. I can deal with bladder spasms when I'm awake; however, they have been increasingly disturbing my sleep, making me a sleep-deprived zombie some days. Free-flow incontinence will be a huge improvement.

How does botox work? Free flow does appeal to me. Large floods always lead to leaks. Diapers, whether infant/toddler, or adult, aren't made to absorb too much all at once. I have stopped trying to hold it back a long time ago. I try to keep my bladder empty as much as possible. At least while out and about in public. However, my job keeps me cooped up in various types equipment for long periods of time. Often it's when I get out of the cab and stand, I have flooding episodes. That is frustrating.