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What Should I Do after a Cystoscopy?

Meshell Powell
Meshell Powell

Proper care after a cystoscopy is essential, and any bothersome symptoms should be reported to a doctor for further medical evaluation. It is important to drink plenty of water after a cystoscopy so that the bladder is completely flushed out. Minor discomfort and bleeding are normal, but severe pain or excessive bleeding warrants a call to the doctor. Symptoms such as fever or an inability to urinate may signal complications and should be discussed with the medical staff. Warm compresses and over-the-counter pain relievers are often recommended to help control the discomfort after cystoscopy.

A cystoscopy is a medical procedure that is designed to help the doctor look into the bladder. Small stones or abnormal growths can also be removed using this procedure. The cystoscopy is usually performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia, although general anesthesia may be used in some cases. The patient is often able to resume normal activities immediately upon returning home from the procedure.

Warm compresses and over-the-counter pain relievers are often recommended to help control the discomfort after cystoscopy.
Warm compresses and over-the-counter pain relievers are often recommended to help control the discomfort after cystoscopy.

In most cases, there is little to no pain associated with the procedure, although some mild discomfort is to be expected after a cystoscopy. The most frequently reported type of discomfort is a burning sensation when urinating, and this symptom usually lasts for only a day or two following the procedure. Warm compresses or baths can be helpful in relieving this discomfort, although some doctors may advise against taking baths for a while after a cystoscopy. Drinking plenty of water can help to flush the bladder and ease irritation.

A few days of bed rest is usually recommended after a cystoscopy.
A few days of bed rest is usually recommended after a cystoscopy.

A small amount of blood in the urine is common for a day or so after a cystoscopy due to irritation to the ureter, the tube that connects the bladder to the outside of the body. Bed rest is typically recommended until the bleeding stops. If the bleeding becomes excessive or does not stop after a couple of days, the patient should be evaluated for potential complications. Fever and persistent pain when urinating are potential signs of infection, and a doctor should be notified.

During a cystoscopy, an implement called a cystoscope is generally inserted into the urethra to examine the bladder and lower urinary tract.
During a cystoscopy, an implement called a cystoscope is generally inserted into the urethra to examine the bladder and lower urinary tract.

Occasionally, serious complications may develop after a cystoscopy. If the patient becomes unable to urinate, a blockage may be present. This blockage may require additional surgical intervention in order to avoid injury to the bladder. Male patients who experience testicular pain should see a doctor in order to rule out a potentially life-threatening complication known as testicular torsion. Sudden and severe pain in the lower abdominal region may indicate a rare but serious bladder rupture and should be considered a medical emergency.

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    • Warm compresses and over-the-counter pain relievers are often recommended to help control the discomfort after cystoscopy.
      By: fotomatrix
      Warm compresses and over-the-counter pain relievers are often recommended to help control the discomfort after cystoscopy.
    • A few days of bed rest is usually recommended after a cystoscopy.
      By: Ana Blazic Pavlovic
      A few days of bed rest is usually recommended after a cystoscopy.
    • During a cystoscopy, an implement called a cystoscope is generally inserted into the urethra to examine the bladder and lower urinary tract.
      By: stockpackshot
      During a cystoscopy, an implement called a cystoscope is generally inserted into the urethra to examine the bladder and lower urinary tract.
    • A cytoscopy is always performed under general anesthesia.
      By: Andres Rodriguez
      A cytoscopy is always performed under general anesthesia.
    • Drink plenty of water to keep the bladder flushed out.
      By: rob3000
      Drink plenty of water to keep the bladder flushed out.
    • A cystoscopy is a medical procedure which allows doctors to look into the bladder of a patient.
      By: 7activestudio
      A cystoscopy is a medical procedure which allows doctors to look into the bladder of a patient.
    • Men who experience testicular pain should make an appointment to see a doctor.
      By: Burlingham
      Men who experience testicular pain should make an appointment to see a doctor.
    • Small stones in the bladder may be removed during a cystoscopy.
      By: ivan kmit
      Small stones in the bladder may be removed during a cystoscopy.