DEAR DR. GOTT:
Last spring I had another colonoscopy (polyps had been found on a previous one). I was fine when I went it but have been ill every since. With other scopes I had no problems but this time I could barely get home. At the two week check up I told the doctor I had pain in my side, gas pressure and woke up many times at night to urinate. I was told it had nothing to do with the colonoscopy and that I probably just had a bladder infection. I then went to my regular doctor who gave me antibiotics. I continue to have all the same problems. I have since timed my nighttime urination to every one hour and twenty minutes. By the time I get back to sleep, I wake up because I have to go again.
It has now been three months since my symptoms started. Do you have any suggestions?
DEAR READER:
The timing of the start of your symptoms and your colonoscopy may suggest a relationship, however I cannot be certain. I am also uncertain about your statement that you could barely get home. Does that mean you drove yourself? Were you in pain? Disoriented? Without specifics it is hard to tell if that experience were related to the colon study. Perhaps you were discharged too soon and were still suffering the effects of the sedative or anesthesia.
As for the urinary tract infection, pain in the side is not common with UTIs unless they have progressed into a kidney infection. The gas pressure could simply be associated pain that, for women is often just above the pubic bone and for men is usually near the rectum. Frequent urination is common for UTI but is generally not limited to nighttime only.
I urge you to be seen by a urologist for testing. He or she should order a urine analysis including a culture and sensitivity to check for bacteria. The specialist may also choose to order imaging studies such as a cystoscopy to visualize the interior of the urethra and bladder. An MRI to check the kidneys and exterior of the bladder may also be helpful.
To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Bladder and Urinary Tract Infections”. Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed, stamped number 10 envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure mention the title.
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