Enlarged Prostate - Catheter of Choice - Operation to Correct Prostate Issue
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- čas přidán 12. 09. 2024
- Every Male will have an issue with an enlarged Prostate sometime in their life - should you go into retention here are some good self-catheter tips - and talking about Plasma Vaporization Procedure
Had bladder retention due to what I thought was an enlarged prostate but ended up being prostate cancer. My original urologist had put a Foley catheter in until he could perform a TURP about a month later. Then, when I had it done, I still wasn’t able to pee, so they gave me the choice of self catheter or putting the Foley cath back in. I asked why it was needed if they did the TURP properly, to which he said he didn’t want to put me through a lot of trauma on top of the cancer diagnosis, so he just did a little TURP. I chose to self cath (prelubricated) & then fire that quack urologist. Found a fantastic urologist who did a proper TURP & I was peeing like a racehorse again. No more catheter, even after having my prostate removed robotically, I didn’t have to have a catheter after leaving the hospital.
The original bladder blockage, my bladder had stretched out over 3 times its normal size, sending me into kidney failure, & nearly sepsis. Got quite a bit of urine out me in the ER that I was rushed to after the radiologist read the CT scan & told me to get to a hospital fast. They catheterized me & got nearly 700ml of urine out. Had the floppy bladder (as they described it) for nearly 2 & a half years, but my latest cystoscope showed my bladder was almost back to normal size (will probably never be back to normal). Still peeing great to this day 3 & a half years later, & so glad I don’t have to self cath. Relatively easy to do, but still not fun.
Wow that was a horrible experience- it is amazing how many unqualified doctors are out there practicing - glad to hear you are on road to recovery - take care
Yes. Its been 6 years and all 8s good - take care
Thank you so much for sharing your story. My dad had terrible problems with his prostate-retention for days leading to ER trips to drain liters of urine. He then had to have a TURP done twice. He was pretty miserable afterwards. This was BEFORE the use of alpha blockers to relax the prostate and prostate shrinkers like dutasteride and finasteride. I started having BPH rather young, 45 years old, I was so scared I was going to end up like my dad. Fortunately, in the intervening years they discovered the prostate shrinkers. They saved me from all that misery.
Thanks again for sharing your story.
You are welcome - glad I could bring some help to a difficult subject
How long did it take the prostate shrinkers to give you relief and do you think that this solution is permanent. Good luck with your prostate health.
My plasma vaporization procedure offered immediate relief as I could pee normally right after surgery- my Uroligist says procedure could last 15-20 years and is totally dependent on individual - Again my condition was brought on in the first place by Testosterone supplements I had been taking for years which I stopped taking immediately- thank you. Tom
@@johnlatham3854 I got some relief immediately, but that may have been from the flomax relaxing it. But the shrinkers take time, 3-6 months I think they said. I also went to a second urologist-a female. She told me that at my age (48) she didnt think it was my prostate causing the urinary retention-based on my pain symptoms she said my pelvic floor muscles could have been so tight they were cutting it off. She examined me and found the pelvic floor muscles were in complete spasm. It was so bad that I couldn’t even pass gas. She sent me to a pelvic floor physical therapist and they taught me how to consciously relax my pelvic floor muscles to allow urine to pass. She was right. There is a book called “Ending Male Pelvic Pain: a Man’s Manual” by Isa Hererra. It talks about male pelvic floor issues-its really interesting. Its available on Amazon.
@@tomgavin5744 The biggest problem with testosterone supplements is they can cause prostate enlargement; and they are usually given to men who are already at risk. I’m quite sure my testosteron has probably been low since my 40’s- But there is no way I would take a testosterone supplement, because of the problems Ive already had.
Tom, Great Job Fulfilling the need to know from the receiving end. Doctor & Nurse videos miss what it means to be on the receiving end of the situation. Thank you for posting.
Welcome - not a fun experience to begin with and anything to make process easier - TY
Thank you - in making video I hoped to help guys understand the catheter choice better and response has been amazing
Thanks for posting this. Similar story on my end. Retention. Foley, etc. Been cathing myself. Hopefully surgery in the next few weeks. I appreciate the humor and honesty. Keep going.
Happy to help in any way I can - take care and Thank you
No doctor or nurse has ever explained this so we'll. Thanks for your candor.
I had TURP in 2019 after weeks of nurse inserted catheters. I could not bring myself to self cath.
I've been on Finasteride and Silodosin since.
I'm afraid they are not as effective as they were immediately post surgery.
Flow is hard to start and weak once it does. But, I usually feel empty.
I am thinking Rezum in the future, as I never want the catheter and bag again.
Oh, first time I had retention I was taken to the ER and catherized. 1400cc ‼️
Same here Robert. 1400+ they said normal guy usually 350 to 400.
Been there, done that with recurrent prostate infections that love to turn into urosepsis, block 1500 ml of black urine, and send me into kidney failure. I learned quickly that having urethral adhesions can also impact the catheter needed for urinary retention. I had coudé tip catheters as opposed to the normal ones that could not be fully inserted and feel awful for any man who undergoes that hellish pain.
Dear Robert, I have been on finasteride 6 years long, and I experienced a complete blockade. I was in emergency, and 1.000 cc was withdrown with a catheter. After this insertion of the catheter, I was administered 2 months with antibioticum tabletta, 5 months with cathereter, and in May/2022 was the TURP. And my BUN and cretinin parameters were higher as befor of the retention. It means the kidney-values were worsening.
I have a question to you.
How are you feeling now after 3 years?
And regarding to the BUN and cratinin parameters are you having good values now? Your kindneys recovered completely?
"Flow is hard to start and weak once it does". I am making urin always sitting, and elevate the knee, for me it functions very well, because in this position the urethra is positioned completely vertical.
Greetings from Vienna
Wow 1400 mine the most was 750cc.
Did your TURP not work?
Being on a fixed income, buying multiple catheters wasn't an option, so I had to figure a way to reuse. I totally agree with the sanitary comment, found out that flushing the catheters with tap water, putting them in white vinegar to sanitize, and not using tap water but instead, distilled water for a pre-use flush made all the difference! Lubrication is also very important to minimize internal chaffing. You should also note that new surgery options are available like rezume, pae & others which make the old surgery ideas seem like butchery! Great video. thanks!
Thank You. Be well
I use soap to lubricate. i also reuse the cathers. sometime 5 times.
@@ufcman8015 Soap? Isn't that an irritant?
@@stevetop5970 it works better for me than lube. you get used to the slight burn.
@@ufcman8015 What ever works I suppose.
Thanks for sharing. I chose to self-cath rather than foley while waiting for a TURP. Great nurse explained how to do it. Not anywhere as bad as I thought it would be. I was surprised how easy it was and it is not a procedure that anyone should be anxious about.
Awesome- I didn't think it was too bad either - hope all is well
Thank you, thank you, thank you! I wish the medical staff explained it this thoroughly. I'll be getting TURP surgery in a month or two, but I've never had a catheter, and didn't know what to expect. This video was a big help.
Glad I could help - best of luck on surgery - get past the first few days after surgery and all will be good
Dear TURP friend, I have been on finasteride 6 years long, and I experienced a complete blockade on 1 January 2022. I was in emergency, and 1.000 cc was withdrown with a catheter. After this insertion of the catheter, I was administered 2 months with antibioticum tabletta, 5 months with cathereter, and in May/2022 was the TURP. And my BUN and cretinin parameters were higher as before of the retention. It means the kidney-values were worsening.
TURP is now finished at you? What is your experience? How are you now?
Greetings from Vienna
@@janosvas8597 my plasma vaporization has continued to be a complete success - I went off a testosterone supplement which was probably why my prostate ballooned in first place and PSA levels are now normal also - I pee like a race horse and only lingering effect is climaxing during sex is different and not as intense buy thankfully ability is still there - take care thanks for note
@@tomgavin5744 Dear Tom, this looks very good! I will go to my urologist in the future every quartal for controla, and I am hoping blockade will never happen to me. And I wish to you also that you will keeping maximal-prostata-healthy! (and all the other parts of the body), take care and best greetings janos
Thanks for the great public service video, Tom...you deserve an award! I waited way too long to get my TURP procedure in 2016. I made numerous frantic trips to the ER due to retention and had very painful nurse catheterizations (but what a relief to get all that urine out!) then I finally agreed to have the TURP and glad I did. Maybe the plasma approach like you had would have been better, I don't know. I can have orgasms, but ejaculation is retrograde. My concern now is that the prostate will enlarge again, so I'm going to buy some catheters to be prepared in case a blocked urethra reoccurs. My urologist told me Ronald Reagan had to have numerous TURPS. I'm supposed to start using an antihistamine and believe that can increase the chances of retention. I appreciate you, and the medical community that helps us pee again!
Thank you so much - spread the word and take care
A real genuine, decent guy. Thanks for sharing your experience and knowledge of catheters. Based on my own research but not backed up by anyone I would advise avoiding dairy products, especially cheese. Dairy is loaded with hormones which is bad for prostate health.
Thank you for the note - take care
Similarly the same problem that I have , had to rush myself to the ER two o’clock in the morning to get help, found out it was the high alcohol content in my seltzer drink that did plug me up , so I drink cranberry juice over ice and water plus I stopped all sugar items and cut the carbs to avoid the insulin to basically cause problems and am losing weight as well , so ease up on alcohol, sugars and carbs and that will help somewhat and go see a Urologist
Great video! I just finished my course of antibiotics to clear up my UTI from my scope which confirmed the enlarged prostate/BPH situation. Loved the comment about the numbing gel not doing squat before the scope insertion. I am at the "still can pee, just can't totally empty" phase so this helped me to be mentally prepared for what may or may not come down the road. Right now I have started on Finesteride so time will tell if that hepls or at least delays a surgical need. Glad you are doing better and loved your sense of humor.
Thank you- best of luck feel better
In process of watching. Have EXTREMELY enlarge prostate. Just started self insertion Tuesday Aug 30. The cath he showed with tip up and blue line is what I'm using as instructed by nurse. MAJOR POINT : KEEP THE BLUE LINE POINTED TO THE SKY & USE SLOOOOO STEADY PRESSURE. WORKS GREAT. Yes there is slight discomfort both in and out. Remember to breathe and DON'T TIGHTEN UP BODY from anticipation. ABSOLUTELY NO SURGERY at this time. Trying some Vitagenix supplement. There is also Gorilla Cherry and probably others. Vita commercial said 90 days to see some results. Had catheter in since late April & changed every 30 days. Saw a bit of ability to void at 60 days, but failed test with it out and one reinserted @ ER late on a Friday. Just went to self-insertion. Also notice this morning had 1 good session of voiding probably 1/3 cup. Stream not real strong, BUT was steady. After not being able to void AT ALL, for a few months, this is heaven.
Been there, done that. Can't emphasize enough what Tom says about washing your hands!! I had surgery and wore the Foley for a week and hated it the whole time. After Foley was removed it was a wonderful feeling to urinate like normal again. I had forgot what it was like after 20 years of pills and TURP and finally catheters. Two days later, blood started showing up and pain started. I awoke one night, went to the bathroom and I got nothing but blood and clots. After that, I got nothing to come out and bladder was killing me. I had to be hospitalized for a methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection. They had to flush me out with anticoagulant through a Cath and spent 3 days in near solitary confinement to get over that. Having said all that, 3 years later, no problems at all. I would have had surgery a lot sooner if I knew it was gonna be this good.
Wow - that sounds awesome- god bless all is good - same here so far so good - thank you for note
Scary stuff!! Glad you made it through this! Thanks for sharing. 🙏 Prayers for you!!
Been there done that!! 😳 Awaiting surgery. Love your special effects!
Wow, reading a number of these comments makes me feel lucky. I'm 67 and have experienced a number of UTIs in the past few years. June of this year found me in the ER again, but thank God the right one. They hooked me up with a urologist that seems to know his stuff. I wound up getting a Foley inserted and had no pain, only a little discomfort when it passed the prostate. Nothing about any of my procedures has caused any pain. Doc is now talking about laser surgery on the bladder neck, but everything I read says cutting away at the prostate. He says there's only a 2% chance of unwanted side effects. I think I'll chance it to be able to pee normal again. Best wishes to you guys suffering from urinary problems. BTW, my problem was my bladder wouldn't empty completely and the consensus is the remaining urine stagnates causing the infections.
Sounds like you are on right path - take care TY
I know I'm more than a little late to this party but a huge thank you for the video, it's the first time I've been able to smile and chuckle (and believe me I did that a lot throughout it) about the subject after the misery of the retention problem and subsequent 5 weeks with an indwelling catheter. I've ignored the enlargement thing for too long and it caught up with me 6 weeks ago, 24hrs of agony and a visit to A&E (ER) for catheterisation. For now there will be an interminable wait for an appointment with a urologist but at least after 5 weeks the bag etc has been removed and I have a supply of selfie catheters which are mercifully fully lubricated. Thanks for sharing the info and the many laughs. I think the world of we older men needs more Tom
Thank you for the kind words- what we have gone through is not pleasant any any insight I can give on my experience I hope can help others- take care and speedy recovery !!!
@@tomgavin5744 did you get resume? or Turp?
@@ufcman8015 mine was called plasma vaporization - which literally lasers an opening through the prostate - just "melts" it away ...
@@tomgavin5744 i am 58 and had this problem since i was 33. been to 4 urologist. the 3rd one said it was huge, other 3 said normal. i have been using catheters for 5 years now. i was going to try rezume but heard it burn like hell. i had prostate weighed and it was 29 grams. not bad at all. now the urologist said it's my bladder. it was a nightmare from age 48 to 53 until i started using catheters. i get uti's 2 to 3 times a yr but it's worth it. any suggestions?
@@ufcman8015 First of all, I would be sure to be on antibiotics as much as possible. Personally I have my own
"soft tub" which only I use. I keep it hyper chlorinated. So far haven't had any indication of UTI.
BTW going in and out with self catheterization sounds to me like a most unwelcome alternative.
Oh Godhow I feel for you Tom. While I don't have that alarge prostate I painfully remember when I had difficulty passing kidney stones and was emergency admitted to the hospital, knocked out and had a catheter put in which stayed for almost a week while I slowly pee'd into a bag all while flat on my back in a hospital bed. Had lithotripsy perfromed and then had the catheter removed by my urologist. Removal hurt like hell and to this day I continually drink plenty of water or risk stones reoccurring. I also had flomax prescribed however I quickly weaned myself off this flomax for very personal reasons.
Thank you so much that's been so helpful and informative I've just realised I've got a self-catheter everyday so I'm looking for every bit of help I can get. much appreciated
You are welcome- happy to help
Thanks Tom . You explain this very well. I had ‘Green Laser’ …nearly two years ago , was told I should last 5 years but have to go back next week. The self catheter is a pain and didn’t work for me. Kept the leg bag for 8 weeks, not a pretty option.
That is a total bummer - best of luck and thank you
I recommend the HoLEP operation, the acronym translated to the holmium laser enucleation of the prostate. Not as many hospitals
offer that op as compared to the TURP, and the technique of the HoLEP takes a longer learning curve for the surgeon. However,
the operation seems to offer some advantages over the TURP, namely less blood loss and a very quick recovery period. I also had a
blocked bladder with even a self catheter not being usable. A quick trip to Vanderbilt in Nashville saved the day. The op consists of
a holmium laser cutting a portion of the core of the prostate away, being stored in the bladder to be removed immediately by a
morcilator. The upside to this is that the removed tissue can be bioped to detect cancer. More accurate than the standard needle
biop.
Well done, light and to the, ahem, point. Seriously, men need to confront this, and hearing it from someone who has experienced it helps confronting this nearly universal problem. Thank you for sharing your experience...
Glad you enjoyed it - thank you - be well
There is a lot of misunderstanding and misinformation out there on this subject. I'm in the midst of this ordeal myself; learning mostly the hard way. Also find many practitioners are stuck in the horse and buggy days, and pride/status/inertia keeps many from getting up to date.
When Urinary Retention suddenly hits it can be unbelievably horrible! You should know there is a big difference between emergency rooms/hospitals. My ordeal was PTSD scale trauma. I couldn't believe it when the ER triage person did not deal with my tormenting pain IMMEDIATELY. Glad I didn't just take a seat in the waiting room out of "politeness".
Second ER installed a Foley. Which is the kind of catheter and bag you go about daily activities in. I wore that thing for more than a month (afraid if I removed it I would seize up with UR again). Mostly the issue is one of "self image". I kept the bag in another bag. Also helped that I was already mobility disabled, so always have the option of getting around on a electric powered chair. Most times people around didn't even notice I was "hooked up to a bag".
The next time I had to get the Foley Catheter changed, I asked (asserted myself) for some sedation. 5 mg. valium IV made a world of difference. Some docs will do this, others will not. (other people's pain is easy for a provider to tolerate!).
Regarding resolution of this conundrum: there are new physical treatments that even many or most Urologists don't know about. Some solutions do not require general anesthesia or a hospital stay. Some practices do the procedure right in their office.
I will almost certainly be seeking out a procedure that is so new, medicare may not even cover it. PAE is apparently least invasive of them all. Fortunately my son-in-law is an MD. I phrased my question in a chatty way, requesting a "subjective" opinion. Remember, doctors need to cya like everyone else. Turns out embolization has a fairly benign history in other applications. (cancer treatment)
In making your choice, remember that these days hospitals themselves can be pretty risky places to spend any amount of time. 'Nuf said.
Hi from england great vlog sir your a natural ! I've had the day n night bags it sure was uncomfortable trying to sleep with the night bagon and it gave you a real painful jolt if you moved about I dont have to wear anything now and I'm waiting for a Lazar op . Over here everything is free from bags right through to any operation as we get it on the national health service. Try n stay off more than 1beer n fizzy drinks try n drink more water n yes wash those hands as it's so easy to get infected !!!
We are in the UK and will have to go private or wait for ages to get this ridiculous very enlarged prostate sorted . The meds dont really work that well unfortunately . My partner is 82 and in constant pain with the catheter so we might get a TURP or laser treatment to shrink this troublesome gland . He has an infection too and the docs dont seem to recognize how bad the pain is. His doctor is a Chinese woman and not understanding enough in my opinion . She has prescribed him morphine but that has its problems I found out . She went bananas when he had an urgent appointment and turned up with shorts on and the catheter hanging down his leg for all to see! But there was nobody around as it was nearly evening. She even informed the Social Services . I dont think the medics are that good over this problem unless they have a father in law or someone they know with the problem ! Thus video and the comments are very useful ! Many thanks !
THANK YOU, I AM 61 AND GOING THROUGH WHAT I THINK YOU WERE EXPERIENCING (NO RETENTION YET) YOUR BRAVE. [THE PROCEDURE ONLY LASTS WHAT LIKE 5 YEARS]
My Uroligist says it could last up to 15 years - god I hope !!!!
Thanks for a great video Tom - hope you are well. Your description of the retention pain, hospital cathetization and self-catheritation are familiar to me and absolutely correct. What has been your experience - 3 years on from the TURP? I opted for medication - dutasteride but reckon TURP is in my future. Loved the humor! 😊
Thank you - As of now I am completely well with no issues - I do pee 1-3 times a night depending how late I drink a beverage - still able to climax - all good Than you and take care
Thanks for the update Tom. Very happy to know you’re doing well and the procedure is a success 3 years on..
You got on the good stuff “dutasteride” probably the strongest prostate shrinker. I was put on dutasteride and silodosin at first, after they were effective I switched to finasteride and tamsulosin. The good news is that the dutasteride shrank my prostate so effectively I was able to avoid surgery, and eventually got to stop taking both pills because I was that much better. The shrinkers do take a while to work, and so I now do “pulse dosing”, meaning I take the shrinker for only 3 months a year, kind of like a touchup at the barbershop.
The SpeedCath you showed, the lubricated one in the green bag, has a coudé tip to make it easier to get past the narrow part in the prostate. When inserted the curved tip MUST BE POINTED TOWARD YOUR BODY or you could do damage to the ureatha or the bladder.
Never had an issue - I always gave any catheter a twist to find path of least resistance - no catheter should ever be forced ... TY.
Thank you for posting this video brotha. I experienced the same exact thing. I'm at the stage where they took out the catheter with the bag that goes attached to it, and I chose to self catheter. I too had an enlarged prostrate that was so bad it blocked the urinary tract. Except I wasn't as smart as you. I waited to go to the doctor until I finally collapsed. I was in so much pain that I have NEVER experienced that much pain in my life. I wanted to cry, but about all I could do was scream like a little girl. Lol. Anyway, I literally thought I was dying. Spent three days in the hospital hooked up to I.V.'s and having blood taken out all hours of the night. I just had my first appointment with the urologist yesterday. I'm trying to get used to this self catheter thing but it hurts like crazy when I have to get past the prostrate that is blocking the urinary tract. And then after I'm done, it feels like I didn't completely drain the bladder. Is this normal? I just want all this to end already. I try to urinate like normal but I can tell it's still blocked. I hope that this gets resolved soon because that turn of events changed my life. Probably forever. I never expected this. I have always been very healthy. This was the first time in my life I had ever been to the doctor. Thanks again my friend. I wish you nothing but the best to you and your family. God bless.
Mike V.
Albuquerque, NM
Man that is brutal- yes you can feel a sensation that you still have to pee - ask your urologist about Phenazopyridine - best of luck thank you for note.
You can by the drug I mentioned over the counter called Azo - it will turn your urine very bright orange- dont be alarmed ...
I hope you are doing better now
Awesome video man you crack me up I'm going through all this right now and I needed to laugh
Tom Gavin , Where have I heard that name before ?
The "coude" tip is supposed to be pointing up there's a mark on the funnel end that should be pointing at your belly button. Except, I don't use those and I have no idea what is the purpose.
I use Rusch Flocath Quick, by Teleflex. It is hydrophilic catheter with the water pouch. This one is the best and I tried at least 8 or 10 different kinds.
This is year 9 for me. Never less than 5 times a day. 1825 times a year is 16,425 catheters. I have had no UTIs since I started. The trick is to get all the urine out. I move the catheter in until the flow starts. When the flow stops I slide the catheter out about 2 inches and back in to drain the residual. And repeat.
Wow - sorry to hear about that - Bard Magic3 was my catheter of choice- penis friendly tip pre-lubricated - thanks for comment
Wonderful video and loved the touch of humor, Tom how are you doing these days? I'm at the front end of my journey and currently in the self cathing stage waiting to be scoped to determine a path forward. At 73 years of age I never thought this could happen to me but here I am. Trying my best to keep a positive attitude and good frame of mind and again thanks for your video it made my day.
I've had basically no further symptoms or issues since surgery- sometimes climaxes during sex are different buy from what I understand the ability to climax is quite positive after this procedure - I have no regrets - good luck and take care
Just got over 9 months of catheters both bag type & self catheter. Selfies were best. Luckily, I had TURP surgery 2 weeks ago and after one week I can now urinate without any assistance. So happy I had it done. Asked doc about the other types and TURP surgery he said is the gold standard and many who have had the others return and get TURP surgery
Good to here all is well - such a relief- literally
Haven't had to use one yet but I'm sure glad i saw your vid. Not only are you funny but i learned what i didnt know. Thanks.
Thank You - take care
My mate drank colloidial silver and it reduced his night time trips to toilet dramatically, first time he'd slept a full night in ages he said.
feb 21 2023
informative video. i'd thot the catheters come as a kit. with a sterile towel and surgeon-like-gloves to wear. the mfg'rs sure assume the user is informed of sterile technique.
your procedure of the laser vap'n is a new one. happy for you to have had success w/ it.
also the fact that you read these comments and reply to them is a big plus.
i've got retention too. and been wearing a leg bag for a month now. due to return to the ER this week for a change-out. also been measureing and recording the volume of pea with every
bag - drain. plus give it a smell-test. one doc said its a sign of infection if it has some odor
Oh man sorry to hear that - your Urologist didn't give you the option of self cathing? So much less of a chore - best of luck. Tom
Tom. Thank you for your courage to share your medical problem. Thank you even more for sharing your experience and knowledge. I am going through this journey due to a dysfunctional bladder due to chronic urinary retention. My bladder isn’t able to contract and now I have an indwelling catheter. I have had it for three weeks and just got a new one that I will have for a month until my next visit.
Can you tell me how long it takes for your urethra to become desensitized? I am fearful of the discomfort of self cathing and even more fearful of how to keep sterile, especially in a public restroom.
Please help?
Sorry to hear about your situation - When I self cathetered it was uncomfortable but I didn't feel pain per say - for me it was relief - I did have an increased urge to urinate so my Doc prescribed Phenazopyridine Hydrochloride which helped with that and pain - you literally pee red which stains everything - good luck god bless
@@tomgavin5744 0
Thank you so much for doing this video. I have had a bladder diverticulum for six years which is basically a hernia in the bladder that has grown out to the size of a balloon. So when urine fills in the bladder it will flow into this second chamber (picture a Siamese bladder). In short when I piss I can't remove the urine in the diverticulum until it continues to fill. It results in UTI's, making it hard to empty my bladder taking a piss, etc. Fast forward to last week and I'm finally told that the neck of my bladder is constricted (my prostate is fine and not large). So I now have to have a bladder neck incision to open up the neck of the bladder so I can piss. For the past year I have had to self catherterize for the past year twice a day! Like I said I hear you Tom!!! The problem is that after the operation I will be able to have an orgasm but NOTHING with come out! Retrograde ejaculation it's called and it will be permanent. Also there is a 10-15% risk of permanent inability that I will never be able to have an erection ever again. The shock of hearing this actually made me feel suicidal for a day or two! I am just wondering if you know of any other procedures that can open the bladder neck without causing these permanent side effects? I think I would rather self catheterize for the rest of my life (and these hoses are not cheap and if you travel, go hunting, etc they are a real inconvenience). Anyway again thank you for sharing what we men go through and I wish you all the best health. I really don't know what my options are and I just don't want to think about it.
Man that really sucks - I know of no other procedure unfortunately- although totally inconvenient the alternatives are worse - wish you all the best - thanks for watching
@@tomgavin5744 thanks for your kind thoughts.
Thanks for the video Tom, very informative, you have helped me.
Thank you. Take care
Love your take on this sensitive subject! Thank you!
Very welcome - helping man one penis at a time !!! Take care
Thanks for that explanation I'm booked up for the Buck Rogers op too here in UK. Only thing is I don't know when yet . I was on the catheter with a valve so that I could turn it on to pee at will but I got an infection which was so sore I had to remove said catheter. I'm now on antibiotics and just coping by not drinking too much at anytime. Wish me luck. I'm heartened that you are ok now . All the best.
Thanks for note and best of luck with operation
The same happened to my father after 3 days. And yes , I did hear him scream.
For my brothers having watched Tom's *excellent* video about Self-catheterization (I had to GOOGLE that term for spelling correctness) I just wanted to add here in the comments that the first catheter he showed, the Magic-3, is the one I use and I can highly recommend it. And that "shark tip" that was on the second catheter he showed is called a coudé tip catheter (pronounced “coo-day”.) The idea is that as the catheter is going into your urethra it eventually has to head North, up into your bladder. If you keep the coo-day tip oriented upwards as you push it in, it will (thanks to that bend) travel up and into your bladder without poking the wall of your plumbing. And, here's the good news, the Magic-3 also comes with a coudé tip. Ask your urologist for a "Magic3 Coudé Tip Hydrophilic Catheter". 👍🏼
BTW, Hydrophilic just means that when you squish that silver packet full of sterile water, the surface of the catheter will become SUPER lubricated. Hydro (water) phillic (a fondness for water) 🤓
And thanks, Tom, for this video. I'm glad your procedure went well and that you're peeing like a pro again! 🏆
@sandytrunks thank you for your comments - take care
Use an antibacterial soap,available at drugstore or Amazon.
Thank Tom. The great white has caused me to bleed and lead to failed attempts. I am in the same boat you were. Thanks for the advice.
Sorry to hear about that - one of the most unpleasant experiences in my life - best of luck
Thanks Tom, very useful info that is hard to find. I'm considering having a catheter nearby in case I get a complete retention. How did your surgery turn out longer term, was the recovery very painful, how much was the cost and do you feel normal now, and last, are you happy with this plazma procedure as opposed to other types of surgery. Thanks again for the good info.
Thanks for this. I travel with a catheter, you never know when the meds will fail.
Glad I could offer some help and hopefully some information- take care
@@tomgavin5744 a very slim intermittent is as comfortable as one could be to use also.
Thank you. Greatly appreciated. Well done.
Thank you- hopefully helps someone through this unpleasant experience
I had acute retention, went to emergency they tapped bladder with catheter.
Sure, it was a shock going in. Then relief.
Wore it at home for 5 days. You get used to it. If you can distract your mind!
The removal was not bad.
had all that done apart from the op in the UK, my self medication is, no caffeine or just one coffee per day, we drink a lot of tea in the UK so its Yorkshire de cafe tea bags, stay away from PG, also once a month for 3 to 4 days drink green teas, my favourite is honey and garlic these flush you out, next one is apple cider vinegar THE MOTHER, you pee for England on that stuff, also one chopped clove of Garlick leave to stand for 10 minutes and swill it down with a little water just before bed this helps with liver kidneys and stops infections, last but not least, limit tugging it aggravates the sacks, if you have to do it, make sure you empty your sperm out, don't cross your legs hoping it will go away, you cause blockage's. stay away from alcohol with chemicals in it, drink real ale made from barley or wheat, HAPPY peeing and tugging, hope this helps.
I use a Coloplast Spedicath Flex Coupe Pro. Self lubricated so it goes in and out easy. No strange tip to cause issues. It is in a sheath so there is no touching of the tube. Check it out.
Thank you so much for sharing. I hav the bag on right now. I am schedued for uro-lift in 2 weeks. I am glad to know I am not the only one that has had times when they cannot pee. I was really worried. Thank you thank you Thank you!
Best of luck and speedy recovery - take care and thank you for note
the sonic gram- water ablation surgery of prostate seems the best solution.
Went threw this same thing. Good video Bro. Got the Green Light Surgery.
Self catheterise are the words you need .
Watching in May 2024 from Australia.
Had a catheter for 5 weeks now waiting for a prostate operation hopefully in 2 weeks. No one I’m self catheterising myself.
Wow that's a long time to wait - Best regards
I'm near 61 years old. I had a turp about 8 years ago. It was ok till about 2 years ago, and now I'm up 3 times every night. I'm a truck driver and I gotta stop every 2 hours or so. Sometimes even more often. I've just started taking saw palmetto, and hope it helps real soon. Also just bought some self catheterization tubes. I will use these till the saw palmetto starts to work. I don't want to go back in for another turp, even if it is possible. I guess it is genetic. My dad had a turp. Bad genetics. Oh well, what can you do
I would rather be able to pee than not - urine retention is painful amd I did self catheter for about 10 days waiting for my plasma vaporization procedure - I also get up 1-3 times a night but if I know I'm going to drive a long distance (Like we do to Florida) I limit my liquids before and during trip- can usually make it about 5 hours straight driving before needing to stop- I know of know over the counter anything that would fix what you are describing
Based on what condition others have commented on over the years the alternative could be much worse - take care God bless
Thanks for sharing your experience and hope it goes well for you
Lucky you, i lost bladder muscles have to deal with it forever.
Ditto new lifestyle
Enjoyed your video. Doing the Speedi cath lubricanted. 3 times a day. Thank goodness not the great white shark kind. I’m also doing flow max two pills a day. First time I’ve ever done this. It’s not that bad. You made me laugh several times. Good job on the video.
Glad I could bring a smile to a not fun situation - best of luck
At 76, I’ve had problems for years. Fortunately, Tamsalosin and Finesteride work very well for me. I wonder why a stent can’t be used to hold the urethra open. Seems that if arteries can be held open the urine tube would be an easy fix.
My particular prostate was huge - it was difficult getting a catheter through - my Urologist didn't even talk about a stent - TY for note
Read everything you can! I remember reading that they do have some sort of stent procedure.
BTW The PAE is particularly well suited for larger prostates. There is no upper limit.
Also, FYI, 60% over 60 years old get BPH. 70% over 70 get enlarged prostate. 80% over age 80. And so on.
The self-catheter is the only way to go. I had the Folger Catheter for two months. It was a bummer.
Thank you Tom. I go in this Thursday for the laser version of the TURP procedure.
I sure hope it’ll work for me!
Speedy recovery - take care
@@tomgavin5744 thank you Tom. Your video really helped bring a bit of humor to this lousy situation.
Just starting this journey!
Best of luck - a little rough in beginning but life changing when fixed amd life is once again normal
The older I was getting, the more I had to urinate in my late 50's. I couldn't hold it too long or urine would come out in a very slow drip due to an enlarged prostate. I was later diagnosed with prostate cancer & had a robotic prostatectomy. I've had a Foley catheter for a week post surgery & had the best sleep Surgery ended urine retention, but urinary incontinence reared its ugly head forcing me to wear diapers & then pads. My bladder had thickened through the years & I can hold 8 oz. (the normal bladder can hold 1 quart) & I'm chomping at the bits to pee going 25-30 times/day. 11 years after prostatectomy & I'm still incontinent. I've had 4 UTI's not understanding why until recently. I've learned that I'm not emptying my bladder completely which is the cause, so I'm spending a lot more time at a toilet (or a tree).
I've recently elected to have Botox injections in my bladder which helps ease the urge of always having to go. Works great during the day, but I can't drink any fluids 8 hours before bedtime or I'm running to the bathroom 4-5 times per night-meds don't work. Will be seeing my urologist to check for a UTI & ultrasound of my bladder this week. A common side effect of Botox injections is urine retention. I'm trying everything to keep some quality in my life. I miss being a young man when I didn't need to pee at all at night.
Wow that is brutal - so sorry to hear that - take care and thank you for the note
Thank you very much Tom. Your story is just like mine, i was having a party for retirement and woke up in the same condition. I am now using a self catheter, which I am used to. However, the urologist never mentioned any surgery. So, will I possibly be doing this forever? The Urologist told me to try and pee first so I am peeing out some without it, then put it in and empty out my bladder, with different amounts each time. Since there are different amounts, does that mean it's not emptying all the way? Anyways, thanks again Tom, hope everything works out for you!
Hi Doug unless you just have a UTI and in fact your prostate is enlarged and blocking your ability to urinate you might want to inquire about the surgery which will fix the problem immediately- im sure you could self catheter forever but not sure why you would- I'm not a doctor though so obvious my answer is only an opinion- good luck !!!!
@@tomgavin5744 Thank you Tom, i will take into consideration of your advice and get with my doctor. Thank you again.
So you need a complete examination to determine if your prostate is in large or if your bladder is just weak Surgery will not fix this if it is simple your bladder pull your bladder
Thanks for sharing Tom...I have a lot of problems peeing now and would like to have a catheter on hand in case of an emergency, but all of the places I've checked require a prescription to order them. Do you know of a place that doesn't require a prescription? Thanks!
I think amazon or ebay
Hi Tom,
Just wanted to say thanks for taking the time to do the Vid. as you said most of us guys are headed this way, and unfortunately with blokes, we just don't want to know 'til it hits us like a train!
I've tried Once to self cathertise, and it was a disaster, the infection I developed about 4 /5 days after the attempt, was sooooo painful, and my advice to anyone out there, is ask your Doc for a course of antibiotics, before you make your first attempt, just so you have them ready, just in case you get infected...nothing worse than having the Delay with getting water tests, then getting to the chemist to get the drugs, far better in my mind to have a box of antibiotic ready and waiting should you need them. Of course DONT use them if you don't have an infection, but I think theyre nice to have ready and waiting just in case.
A question:
Re cleanliness, what do you think about wearing surgical Gloves, sterile types? would that be a good thing to do, even though you have washed your hands three or four times already?
Cheers once again,
Mike (UK)
A box of sterile medical grade gloves wouldn't be a bad idea - along with disinfecting wipes in area you catheterize - be well - thank you for note
I have an indwelling catheter which is changed every 3 months in the day there’s a valve on the end which you just open when you need to pee.at night just attach the bag and dispose of in the morning.
Hi,
Inserting Cath can be “extremely” painful for many, as it just depends on individuals anatomy. Your v fortunate it wasn’t painful.
We’re you sent home with a catheter for a few days till it heals? Could be the laser took care of need for that. I’m suppose to get a “Roto rooter”job, doctors words not mine, and God I hope my Genofinator procedure is as successful as yours. Thx for a great funny and in-depth video. Nice job.
I had some catheters left (lubricated ones) but didn't have to use them and could pee starting day 1 - you'll pee blood for a few weeks and then that will clear up (no worries). I've had no after effects at all with the only minor exception being during, sex ejaculation is different (soupier) but good news being you can still feel good (some can't after op). Good luck
Men, bottom like is don’t wait. Learn, get a good doc, get it done. Better to get it done before you have retention and other problems. Tou can do this. Besides u really don’t have a choice
Thanks for the video. I have a large prostate and taking meds to help with urination. I was planning to get some intermittent catheters and carry with me for emergency situation (like having urination problem while being on a plane). 1) how do you deal with pain while inserting it? do you build tolerance to pain over time? 2) flat tip or coude tip? 3) which brand you find least painful to insert? Thanks!
When I catheter'd for over a week it wasn't painful but just uncomfortable - the last catheter I mention which was well lubricated would be the one I recomend- good luck sounds like someday the operation will be needed - meds don't reduce the size of a prostate
@@tomgavin5744 Thanks for the tip!
The curve tip is for an enlarged prostate if the regular one doesn't work
@@dancassidy7471 For me the curved Catheter was brutal - always caught and made it more difficult to pass through - lubricate lubricate lubricate
@@tomgavin5744 hey Tom..I have 2 self caths now under my belt..awfully uncomfortable plus I have a UTI. Today goal is 4. Both times I had 450 mls out PVR..meaning post Void residual
Currently running with a Foley cath, because of 'side effects' of anesthesia while getting abdominal hernia fixed on a 1 day hospital visit. Back that nite cuz couldn't pee more than a couple tablespoons with a 100% full bladder screaming at me 'I gotta pee NOW!!!!' To the ER, hours of waiting (the usual ER craziness), got a urologist, more testing, OK, go cath this man. Untrained nurse, I think, did NOT use the numbing gel, straight in with the hose, I'm screaming like a cat with it's tail caught in a closed door. Almost 1000ml of pee into the bag right away. When the Foley is finally out tomorrow, I suspect my prostate will be doing same as yours, so I'm thinking one of the laser treatments to hollow the thing out completely so as to never need messing with again.
Good luck - Plasma Vaporization may be way to go - best of luck thanks for viewing
I am in the same boat you where. retention. I was wanting to know about the self cath thing. This was super informative!! What I am also hearing that scares me is the TURP doesn't work frequently!! yikes whats up with that.
I had plasma vaporization which might be slightly different than TURP ? Mine was an immediate success and now many years into it still no issues - I got off testosterone supplements which most likely was the root cause of my issue - good luck take care
Awesome video thank you for sharing my surgery is in 3 weeks have to self catherer for right now🥴
You are welcome - glad I could add some insight - good luck
I have been using them for over 20 years not a problem take one out when on the beer does not hurt
Thank god
Thank you so much. Good job.
You are welcome - hope video added insight
Good stuff when they did mine ... I thought they were working for rotor rooter...
Hey Tom and followers! I got a second opinion from my company Ma General Brigham..so prostate is not issue but bladder is..some hope now to keep bladder stable thus preventing kidney damage b self catching 4 x a day.. Sadly more painful than I hoped for..maybe less pain when UTI resolves
Ask your Doc about Phenazopyridine Hydrochloride which really helped my pain and constant urge to pee
Thank you for the info and the explanation.
You are welcome - hopefully it helps. Tom
Thanks for the best explanation I have heard. Question, I can’t find the Magic 3. I’ve got a large prostate as well. Do you have a link? Best to you post surgery.
I was only able to get it as a script by my doctor and through a medical supply store - take care
Don't have to yet but thanks Tom for the info I try to care for mine but I still like a martini from time to time so will need this info in the future. Thanks again!
You are welcome thanks for watching
Alcohol can certainly be a problem yes, also too much processed sugars, carbohydrates and dairy etc but not higher levels of testosterone by itself.
And thanks for sharing!
Great video!
Thank you
Red rubber is the way to go
THANK YOU TOM! GOD BLESS! NEW SUB. ALWAYS THUMBS UP!
Thank you for note - take care
Great video Tom! Thanks.
Thank you
They tried to teach me to insert one today but my prostate was swollen and it wouldn't go through. I am passing blood clots and blood tonight. Very sore. Must go back monday to try again. They will try a smaller diameter with an end meant for swollen prostate. I am trying to stay positive. Doing this 3 time a day for two months sounds horrible. Will it get easier or painless the more I do it?
Man sorry to hear that - mine was also totally blocked and at times I had to "twist" the catheter a bit to get it through - it is very uncomfortable to say the least - That catheter I recommend is the only one that felt relatively comfortable inserting - it does get easier because I think you get more tolerant of the discomfort - a nurse doesn't know what you're feeling when inserting that's why I felt it was easier doing it myself & much better than wearing a bag - best of luck
thank your for this video, Tom.
My pleasure!
Thanks for sharing, stay well!
Look up urologist in your area that does the green light laser procedure for an in and out experience as an outpatient with less bleeding.
All men have prostrate that continue growing as we age and can eventually block the urine canal and back up the bladder to the kidneys if not relieved.
Just had to start the self-catheter routine myself. When my urologist said, "you aren't gonna like what I have to say...", then he tells me my bladder muscles ain't working as well as they use to and I'm going to have to self-catheter, well, I was not excited. I'd had a catheter ONCE when I was in the hospital a decade ago and did not enjoy the experience then-especially since the female nurse that shoved it down the pike was in a hurry and wasn't too gentle. But now that I've gotten the hang of it, no problems. The first few times, don't freak out if there's a little blood in your pee and it's "uncomfortable" (stinging pain!!), you get used to it. Don't be shy about asking for a different size cath. The usual is a 16 or 18 French, but they go down to 12 French, I think? I prefer the 14 French, it's just a bit easier to insert for me. And use lots of KY or whatever gel they give you. And wash your hands and dong before starting. Those UTI's are a b*tch.
Hi thanks for note- as I describe in video that pre-lubricated Catheter is the best I found - the ones that require to out the lubricant on is just another step that could cause infection - take care
Hello Tom. Thank you for this video. Did your enlarged prostrate raise your PSA? Just curious.x
A Gel Testosterone supplement I was taking daily (my Testosterone levels were extremely low) raised my PSA above 7.5 and the supplement caused my enlarged prostate - I stopped taking that supplement and PSA has been below 2.5 and no further enlargement since op - thank you take care
Tom, great video. I have an enlarged prostate forcing me to get up several times a night [wreaking havoc on my sleep], but my doctor said nothing can be done surgically. Who was your urologist doctor and where did you have the procedure done?
Dr Oleyourryk in Rochester New York - awesome doctor - my Prostate was so large it blocked the ability to pee - might be time for a 2nd opinion
how was the operation? did it work
Hi Gavin, Thanks for your very thoughtful video. You refer to your procedure as Plasma vaporization. Is that the exact name? The closest thing I could find was something called “bipolar “button” plasma vaporization (BPVP)” If the procedure has a specific name and acronym, can you give us as much info as you know please, please. There are so many minimally invasive treatments it is hard to know exactly which you had? Thanks, Very much Eugene
Hi and thanks for note - I only know of my procedure as plasma vaporization which uses a laser/plasma type device to literally melt away prostate tissue to create an opening- its an out patient procedure and you go home right after anesthesia where's off - hope that helps - maybe of you Google my Uroligist it may explain better - Doctor Olyeyourryk
I have been useing 16fr for years, no problem.
Thanks for the info. Worked for Bard known for urology and catheters for 20 years. How do you purchase the Magic 3 and determine your personal French size? Take care, Guy
Got the Magic 3 as a script from my Uroligist- he must have determined my size not sure. TY