I started EBRT this week and have struggled to keep a full bladder long enough to have the treatment, any advice please on how to calm my bladder as have had to release urine as it is very sore .....
I'm sorry to read about your situation. With external beam radiotherapy ( EBRT ) it's quite common to have trouble with bladder control during treatment. Keeping a full bladder for the treatment helps protect nearby organs. But when the bladder is sore or irritated this can feel impossible to do.
You may have tried this already, but if not, try and empty your bladder an hour before you start treatment, then start sipping water slowly over about 30-45 minutes before your appointment, rather than drinking a big amount quickly. This gives the bladder time to fill without overwhelming it. Avoid caffeine and acidic based drinks such as tea or coffee, orange juice or cola as these can make the bladder more sensitive.
Do speak to the radiotherapy team and see what their advice is. They may suggest adjusting your treatment slightly. Some people are prescribed medication to calm the bladder and the radiotherapy team can advise you further on this.
I hope this improves for you soon. Give us a ring if you would like to talk things over. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.
