Intermittent self catheterisation

[philip25]

I have been self cathing for 11 years.A couple of years ago I started to get symptoms of UTI on a regular basis.No infections were shown in "dip test" taken on several occasions by my GP.The explanation I was given was that it was trauma in my bladder.I now take 500 mg of cephalexin daily.Can you suggest any other way ahead to combat this other than a daily antibiotic.I have become prone to oral thrush.If I take any other antibiotics (eg for chest infection or similar.)I eat probiotic yogurt and drink cranberry.
Any advice would be appreciated.As I have read articles about the long term use of antibiotics causing problems.

[Ann Moore]

I dont know why you are self catheterising but it may be worth them referring you to your urologist for a check inside your baldder. Alternatively It may be that the type of catheter you use needs to be reviewed as these change constantly. Depending where you live there are companies that have specialist nurses who visit you at home. Or it may be a referral back to your local Nurse Specialists.

[Debbie Stuart]

You are right to drink cranberry juice - It is thought that cranberry juice helps to line the bladder making it harder for any infection to thrive. It is important to wash your hands when possible before inserting your catheter to help reduce the risk of infection. If this isn't possible, there are new catheters available that require minimal handling, helping to cut the risk of infection.
You may benefit from discussing this detail by contacting the Bladder & Bowel Foundation Clinical Helpline on 0845 345 0165 and leaving your name and number, a continence adviser will call you back.

[philip25]

Thank you for the replies I have received.In answer to why I self catheterise ,it was found that I was retaining urine (500ml)in my bladder.Which was in turn causing cystitis. This was finally discovered after uro-dynamics and the consultant said that the nerves at the neck of the my bladder were not functioning as they should and he felt this was a better option than surgery to the neck of the bladder.

[Mr Benjamin Challacombe]

I agree with above
It has been 11 years so time for a review
you needs an ultrasound and flexible cystoscopy to re assess things
Might be a bladder stone, renal stone, etc that is causing your new UTIs
Ben