www.incontinentsupport.org

Hello everyone,

I had been monitored for a long time for my prostate due to some urinary issues but mainly because of family history.
With PSA levels gradually rising, an MRI and a biopsy confirmed what I feared: I had prostate cancer.

Because it was still localized, the doctors initially recommended active surveillance. The tumor was spreading slowly but steadily. Action was needed—either a radical prostatectomy or stereotactic radiotherapy.

I'm still young (under 50) and didn't feel ready for a radical prostatectomy, especially since I never had excellent urinary continence. I was afraid of worsening that incontinence. I just completed radiotherapy. Since then my incontinence has unfortunately worsened. Previously I mainly needed protection at night (let’s call it what it is — adult diapers); during the day pads were enough. Now I’m completely incontinent day and night. Urination has also become more painful, so I’m taking tamsulosin to reduce the pain, which doesn’t help my incontinence.

I know many of you have had a prostatectomy, but did any of you choose radiotherapy? Who is taking tamsulosin? Did it also worsen your incontinence?

Kind regards

Robin

Although I have not had prostate cancer, I have had two urinary sphincterotomies, making diapers essential clothing. If you have had cancer of any kind, even if it has been successfully removed, you have a life-long commitment to keep yourself under surveillance. Keep yourself apprised of the latest medical technological developments which could influence your management. Become skilled at incontinence management, becoming familiar with different brands of diapers and plastic pants. Learn how your body processes fluids, and keep a running tally of the nearest handicapped restrooms. Good luck and keep us informed.

Mr_Robin wrote:Who is taking tamsulosin? Did it also worsen your incontinence?

I think you'll find that many folks take Tamsulosin/Flowmax for BPH. Unfortunately, I take it but it has NOT affected my IC at all. What it does do however, is make my sinuses run constantly, which I hate. It forces me to sleep on my back so that my sinus will drain down my throat.

Tamsulosin did nothing for me,Urologist is suggesting TURP now.
I am still thinking about it.