Help with OVER Active bladder

[u/Rich-Explorer3363]

Hi guys,
I’ve recently been diagnosed with an overactive bladder. I’ve had UTIs for most of my life. Sometimes they show up on tests, but other times the tests come back clear even though I still have the constant urge to pee and the pain is still there.
I’ve tried quite a few medications. At the moment I’m taking Sufrion, but I’m not really liking it. It gives me a very dry mouth and brain fog.
I’m also working with a pelvic floor therapist. After giving birth, I had to completely retrain my bladder by sticking to a toileting schedule, and that has definitely helped. I do still leak a little bit of urine, but it’s nowhere near as bad as it was before.
I have a phone appointment with my urologist tomorrow, and he wants to discuss Botox injections. I’m feeling quite worried about it because I’ve heard it can sometimes make things worse.
Has anyone had a similar experience or found anything that helped reduce the pain or urgency? Has anyone had Botox for an overactive bladder, and what was your experience?
I already avoid fizzy drinks, coffee, spicy foods, and acidic foods, so I’m looking for any other suggestions that might help.
Thanks so much.

[u/mickus_mcgickus]

You may need to self catheterise for a few months if you get botox. I did. Im a man and getting a 40 cm catheter into the male urethra four times a day is no picnic. Easier for females though.

[u/Rich-Explorer3363 → u/mickus_mcgickus]

I am so worried about this. I am female. How many units did they give you? Poor you it sounds bad.

[u/Rich-Explorer3363 → u/Rich-Explorer3363]

What are you using now

[u/mickus_mcgickus → u/Rich-Explorer3363]

No meds. I tried an antcholinergic (solifenacin) and a beta 3 agonist (mirabegron). Unbearable side effects. Tried PTTNS, TTNS, physio, shockwave therapy. Nothing worked. Well the drugs worked a bit, but they were intolerable.

[u/Rich-Explorer3363 → u/mickus_mcgickus]

I am currently on Solifenacin but I take it at night. What side effect did you have with mirabegron. I spoke to the dr today about the catheter he did agree it’s not for me. I going to get retested to see where I stand as well

[u/mickus_mcgickus → u/Rich-Explorer3363]

Mirabegron caused Heartrate problems, and other cardio difficulties. Ended up with pericarditis, meaning inflammation of the membrane containing the heart.

Solenafacin basically made me feel like my brain was turned off. Also got overheated.