Dear Trudy,Enid Picture

My name is Enid. I am 50 years old, and I live in Puerto Rico. At the age of 24 I was diagnosed with invasive cervical cancer. Consequently, I had to undergo a radical hysterectomy and radiation therapy. Approximately 6 years ago I was diagnosed with neurogenic bladder as a result of the surgery and radiation . . . 20 years later! Regardless of how cautious I am when I self-cath, bacteria which have “colonized” my bladder reemerge. Now every 3-4 weeks (no exaggeration) I have to take intravenous antibiotics for 14 days since the ESBL E. coli bacteria has become resistant to all oral antibiotics. My doctors fear that eventually the bacteria will also become resistant to the IV antibiotics, but that there’s nothing else that they can do. They’ve suggested that I visit doctors in the U.S. but due to financial reasons and my job, this is not possible. Has anyone had a similar experience? Suggestions please. Thank you.

Question:
. . . since I have recurrent (monthly!) and aggressive (ESBL) UTIs which have become resistant to ALL oral antibiotics I am forced to have my meds administered intravenously. I’ve been to several doctors and they all say it is due to my neurogenic bladder and the constant use of catheters. Like you, I am super careful and sterile when I self-cath, so this response drives me crazy. Please help . . . I’m running out of options. Thank you.

 

Dear Enid,

For some reason, no matter how careful I have been, I have developed a colony of bacteria in my bladder as well. Despite trying multiple courses of oral antibiotics I was dealing with constant bladder infections. My urologist suggested a compounded liquid antibiotic put directly into my bladder. So far it has helped me and as long as I take it I am bladder infection free. A couple of times I have not inserted it and my urine has become cloudy. I would like to report that it is a total cure, but for me it is not. It simply controls the bacteria that have colonized the lower portion of my urinary tract.

To insert it I use a catheter with a cone shaped end, and after I empty my bladder I use the syringe to place the lifesaving liquid directly into my now empty bladder. The compound I use needs to be refrigerated, with a shelf life of about a month.

Since this is a drug, it needs to be prescribed by a doctor; I do not want to say exactly what I use in the blog, because what works for me might not work for you.

Enid, I hope this helps you. I will remember you in my prayers.

Fondly,

Trudy