When it comes to Botox injections in the bladder, many people are concerned about the level of pain they may experience. But the truth is, it doesn't hurt as much as you might think. Most patients compare it to a menstrual cramp, and they usually get relief from their symptoms within a few days. The treatment results last for about six months, and you may need additional injections after that.
There are two side effects associated with injecting Botox into the bladder: an increase in the residual amount after evacuation, and an increased risk of urinary tract infection or bleeding in the urine. In some cases, this can lead to the need for temporary catheterization. When this occurs, patients are taught to catheterize once or several times a day due to problems associated with increased post-vacuum residue. In most cases, this doesn't cause any symptoms and doesn't need treatment. However, in some patients (about 6% in clinical trials) it can be a problem and may require the temporary use of a catheter to help empty the bladder. The good news is that most people get quick relief from symptoms in just a few days.
After receiving a Botox injection, your bladder control may have improved for about 12 weeks. Some people may continue to have bladder control after 24 weeks. After this period, the Botox effect wears off and you'll need more injections. This procedure should not be too painful, as it is usually done under local anesthesia. However, it might not be exactly comfortable either.
To treat bladder conditions, Botox is given by injection into the detrusor muscle (the muscle that lines the bladder). General anesthesia is not needed for Botox injections into the bladder, but your doctor will give you a local anesthetic to temporarily numb your bladder and prevent you from feeling the injections. Botox is commonly known for its use in cosmetics, but it can actually help with a variety of medical conditions. It helps block nerve signals in the bladder that cause the release of urine and prevent involuntary loss of urine. Other side effects may include fatigue, pain or difficulty urinating, and temporary inability to empty the bladder. Most patients see a reduction in involuntary urine loss within two weeks of receiving Botox in the bladder and its full effects after 12 weeks.
Bladder Botox has been shown to produce dramatic improvements in symptoms and quality of life in women who have not responded to other treatments or have been unable to tolerate them. An advantage of InterStim therapy compared to Botox is that it involves an upfront time commitment and doesn't require much follow-up care. If it can reduce these symptoms, the bladder procedure with Botox can also help improve the quality of life for people with incontinence-related anxiety or depression. According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine, Botox treatment for the bladder reduced episodes of urinary incontinence by 60 to 80%. For use in adults with detrusor hyperactivity caused by a neurological condition, the recommended dose is 200 units of Botox. When looking for a doctor near you who performs Botox bladder injections, make sure he's board certified and specializes in the area in question. Talk to your doctor to see if he has any other recommendations for managing pain during or after the procedure.
