Bladder cancer

30/12/2024

I Have been living with bladder cancer for over 4 years, I have received 2 operations one in 2018 followed by Mitomycin x 6. And 2nd Turbt in 2024 for low grade G2pTa followed by 6 x Mitomycin, since my last introvescial chemotherapy on 2nd December I have been in pain, lower abdomen for approx 2 weeks this has since abated but during this set back I have been in pain at the end on my penis And I appear to have lost the signal of when I want to urinate which is very frequently, Understandably this continual penal pain and constant visits to the lavatory is resulting in my being housebound.

For the pain I have been taking Cocodomol 30g for a short time followed by Cocodomol 8g and Ibrufen for any swelling that may have occurred. I am asking if I should have any cause for concern because since my last and 6th dose of Mitomycin on 2nd December 2024I do not seem to be healing.

I am also concerned because I am due for my  first Cytoscopy on the 31st January 2025 and the way I am feeling do not want any further invasive camera treatments.

Is there any treatment or suggestions you can make that might help with my situation.

Kind Regards 

  • Hello and thanks for posting

    I'm sorry to read about the symptoms you've been experiencing. It sounds like you are going through a lot, and I appreciate you feeling worried about them and the upcoming cystoscopy at the end of January.

    It's possible that the pain and discomfort you're experiencing could be related to irritation or inflammation from the mitomycin treatments. Mitomycin can sometimes cause irritation of the bladder lining or urethral irritation which could explain the pain in your penis. The loss of your normal sensation to urinate might also stem from irritation or inflammation. This can sometimes happen after repeated treatments.

    The best thing to is to contact your specialist team so they can assess your symptoms and advise you further. If you have a specialist nurse (CNS) involved in your care then perhaps they can provide you with further information. You often have to call and leave them a message and they will get back to you.  

    I hope your symptoms improve soon. Please get back to us if you need any more information or support. You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Best wishes,

    Celene