mixed incontinence and catheters

[jaclowe1]

I have mixed incontinence as a result of damage to my bladder following bowel cancer and radiotherapy. To help with my problems i catheterize several times a day. This situation and requirment is fairly new to me and although my condition is permananet can you please tell me if cathetirization in itself and long term use of catherters will cause any further damage to my bladder and associated internal organs for example my kidneys.

Thank you

[Mr Benjamin Challacombe]

Sorry to hear of your problems
Intermittent self catheterisation can be used long term
there is a chance a 1-2 urine infections per year on average
It protects the kidneys by reducing the bladder pressure and ultimately should cause less infections than a permanent catheter
You should have annual or 6 monthly kidney function blood tests and regular urine tests as well
If there is ever any visible blood then a referral would be indicated