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Actos Side Effects: The bladder is a balloon-shaped, muscular organ tucked into the pelvis and held in place by fibrous bands and muscle. The bladder is part of a system that includes the kidneys, ureters, and urethra. These work to process the waste products left behind after your body has taken out the nutrients it needs from the food you eat.

The bladder is lined on the inside by a tissue known as “urotheli- um,” the smooth layer that stretches as the bladder fills and prevents excreted material from being reabsorbed into the body. Underneath the urothelium is a mix of fibrous or supporting tissue and muscle, both of which help the bladder to expand (when full) and to contract and excrete urine at the appropriate time.

Not only does the urothelium line the bladder; it also is found as the lining tissue elsewhere in the urinary tract system, including in the ureters (the tubes that drain the kidneys), the urethra (the tube that drains urine from the bladder to the exterior of the body), and parts of the male prostate. Urothelial tissue, too, can sometimes develop cancer­ous changes known as urothelial malignancy. The most common type of urothelial malignancy is “transitional cell carcinoma.” (See Chapter 3.)

It’s important to note that when the urothelial tissue is exposed to cancer-causing substances, such as the breakdown products of ciga­rette smoke, the potential exists for cancerous changes to occur in multiple areas. That’s why when bladder cancer is suspected or con­firmed, the whole urinary tract is screened for the possible presence of other cancerous deposits. Other organs, such as the lungs, liver, skin, and intestinal tract, also process waste. These systems work together to balance the chemicals and water that your body needs to function properly.

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The urinary system processes urea, a specific waste product that is produced when protein-containing foods (such as a meat) are broken down in the digestive process.Urea is filtered through the kidneys and together with other waste by-products and water, becomes urine. This is carried by thin tubes called ureters to the bladder, where it is stored. Muscles in the walls of the ureters squeeze out small amounts of urine into the bladder on a constant basis, about every 10 seconds. A healthy bladder can hold about two cups of urine for up to five hours. Healthy adults produce about six cups of urine a day.

A strong muscle somewhat like a rubber band circles your bladder and keeps the urethra tightly closed until nerves in the bladder signal you that the bladder is full and it is time to urinate. Urinary problems include the inability to retain the urine in the normal fashion or to void urine from the body. Sometimes people experience the urge to urinate even if the bladder is not full. Sometimes this is caused by bacteria in the bladder, which can cause an infection called cystitis. This symptom can also be caused by local bladder irritation or by the development of cancer. As with all parts of the human body, the bladder can develop cancer, which can also cause problems with retaining or voiding urine.

The most common symptom of bladder cancer is hematuria, or blood visible in the urine, either with or without any accompanying pain. About 85 percent of the people diagnosed with bladder cancer notice blood in their urine, and it’s often what prompts them to seek med­ical attention.

In some cases, the presence of blood isn’t noticeable to the naked eye and can only be seen through a microscope, usually when a urine test is being done during a routine physical or when an infection of the urinary tract or bladder is suspected. A urine test can detect whether blood is present in the urine and can also rule out whether other things, such as food or medicines, are the cause of red or rusty-colored urine.

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Noticeable blood in the urine is a tricky symptom. It appears in varying colors and at irregular intervals, and as a result, you might overlook its significance or decide to wait and see whether it happens again before checking it out. For example, you may notice blood in your urine or drops of blood in your underwear two or three times in as many days, or you may see it on one occasion but after that your urine appears normal for days or weeks. The same thing can happen with a laboratory urinalysis, where red blood cells may be visible microscopically only intermittently.

You might experience a gush of With the major symptoms bright red blood or notice pink or rusty of bladder cancer acting in brown urine or even little clots of such a variable fashion, blood. To complicate things even appearing in different ways more, foods you eat such as beets or and sometimes disappearing blackberries may produce colored altogether, it’s important to urine, as do a number of medicines, see your doctor immediately food additives, and vitamins. If you notice blood or what

With the major symptoms of bladder you think might be blood in cancer acting in such a variable fash- your urine. ion, appearing in different ways and sometimes disappearing altogether, it’s important to see your doctor immediately if you notice blood or what you think might be blood in your urine. As with most cancers, the key to successfully managing bladder cancer is detecting it early and starting treatment as soon as possible.

Bladder cancer does not have a long list of symptoms, and many of the symptoms are typical of other, less severe conditions such as infections or benign tumors. Besides blood in the urine, your symp­toms can include pain or burning during urination, a feeling of having to urinate because of an uncomfortable fullness, or the need to get up frequently at night to urinate. You may also have symptoms such as backache, abdominal pain, and unplanned weight loss, or you may feel more tired and achy than usual.

Our use of the term or terms Actos Side Effects is for descriptive purposes only. There is no relationship between the owners of this website and the maker of the product discussed in this post. Our use of the words Recall, Class Action Lawsuit and other similar words related to an event do not necessarily mean that this event has occurred. Refer to the website of the United States Food and Drug Administration for information on drug or medical device recalls. If a Class Action Lawsuit is formed in relation to the product discussed in this post we will provide that information at the time the Class Action is formed. A Class Action Lawsuit is not required to exist for you to file a lawsuit if you have been injured by the product discussed in this post.

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After the initial shock of being given a new diagnosis of cancer, a flood of emotions follow with fear and anxiety being foremost. Questions fill your mind:

How serious is it?

Can 1 be cured?

Am I going to die?

Will I suffer?

What treatments are available?

Can 1 do anything to improve my odds?

What side effects will occur from the treatments?

Will I lose time from work?

Will my insurance cover the cost?

Will I be disfigured?

Will my spouse and family be supportive?

Do 1 have a good doctor?

Bladder cancer, or any serious potentially life threatening illness is generally alien to most individuals. Suddenly, lives are changed and a new reality must be dealt with. Becoming a “patient” or worse “a cancer patient” is not only threatening, but a dreaded proposition. Cancer patients are not happy with the loss of autonomy, the invasion of privacy, the discomfort inflicted upon them and the demands on their time and quality of life. As a patient, being thrust into this altered identity, it is essential to seek out the information you need. Having a fundamental base of knowledge is a must when facing the issues and treatment decisions which lie ahead. In the following pages, together we will explore bladder cancer, a disease which is totally foreign to most of us until the diagnosis is made. I have chosen to present the information in a question and answer format, written in a conversational tone, as if I were having an extended consultation with one of my patients. The questions are typical of what individuals have asked over the years. 1 have covered the key issues and decisions the individual with bladder cancer may face. The answers are to the point and cover the essentials required to make an informed decision for most individuals. For others, a more detailed resource may be required. For helpful sources of additional information see the Appendix.

Each individual’s situation is unique. Decisions on treatment may be modified based on the patient’s preferences and values and altered by other considerations such as age and coexisting conditions. By becoming an individual knowledgeable of bladder cancer, you will be prepared to fully partner with your physician for your best possible outcome. To your companions and family members, this book will serve to answer the many questions and doubts that may arise. Having your loved ones informed and supportive is a big plus for the individual facing this new challenge.

The book is written in a logical sequence starting with finding a qualified urologist to the basics on bladder cancer, its assessment and treatment. At the end of the book, you will find chapters on complementary medicine, advance care planning, and hospice care. The book can be read in sequence or each chapter can serve as a resource covering the basics of the topic. It is my hope this book will help clarify the many issues and options individuals must face with bladder cancer. For family members, significant others and concerned friends, this resource should help improve your understanding and thus your ability to assist your loved one.

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Understanding bladder cancer is a tremendous first step that will assist you in your treatment. Having a qualified urologist administer the actual treatments and care for you is essential for the best possible outcome. In the following chapter, we will explore what you need to know to assure you have the right urologist.

BESIDES LEARNING ABOUT MY DISEASE, WHAT IS MY MOST IMPORTANT FIRST STEP?

Make sure you have an excellent urologist supervising your care. A urologist is a surgical specialist trained to care for conditions involving the male and female urinary tracts and the male reproductive system. The bladder is part of the urinary system, and a urologist is trained to care for problems involving it, including cancer.

IS IT IMPORTANT TO HAVE A BOARD CERTIFIED UROLOGIST?

A urologist board certified by The American Board of Urology has gone through an accredited urology training program (generally a four year program), following two years of internship and residency in surgery after four years of medical school. The urologist must be in practice after training and provide a detailed list of surgeries, including complications, over a twelve month period. The doctor will then take a two day oral and written test covering a wide spectrum of urology. If he passes, he is certified for a period of ten years. At the end of the ten year period, he must recertify to maintain his board status. Recertification entails a three month surgical and procedure log and a written test as well as reference letters from those in a position to judge the practicing urologist’s work. Any malpractice or judgments are also reviewed. Although being board certified does not guarantee you have an excellent urologist, it demonstrates that he has the fund of knowledge to practice urology competently. Even though board certification is voluntary, in today’s competitive environment more and more hospitals and insurance plans are requiring their specialists to be certified.

HOW CAN I TELL IF MY UROLOGIST IS BOARD CERTIFIED?

The urologist has worked hard to obtain board certification. The certificate from The American Board of Urology is often displayed openly in his office. If you do not see it, you can simply ask him or you can call 1-866-275-2267 or use this web site: www.certified doctor.org

SHOULD I TRY TO FIND A UROLOGIST WHO HAS BEEN IN PRACTICE FOR YEARS OR A NEWLY TRAINED ONE?

Surgery is a skill which can only be mastered with experience. The saying “practice makes perfect” definitely pertains to surgery. Although a urology training program offers the new physician years of training, his surgical skills will continue to improve with further experience. However, each individual physician has his own innate skills. Some more quickly learn and are simply better at the technical craft of surgery than others. For the most part, urologists finishing an accredited urology program have the training and skill set required to care for patients with bladder cancer.

Experience also counts. As a physician practices the art of medicine, his depth of knowledge and ability to treat grows. Ask your physician how long he has been treating patients with bladder cancer. If you require major surgery ask how many he has performed and if his complication rate matches what is expected.

Physicians by and large do improve as they practice, and all physicians are required to show that they are continuing to learn by partaking in continuing medical education, a requirement to remain licensed. Most physicians are compulsive in their medical practice and care deeply in the care they deliver. They continually strive to improve.

Some physicians may become “burned out” over the years as they continue to face the pressures of a busy medical practice. Similarly, towards the end of a surgeon’s career, technical skills may slip due to aging. New urologists are trained in the latest techniques and are familiar with recent medical literature, but may lack practical experience. In the end, recommendations from others and reputation may be your best guide to finding a qualified physician.

WHAT QUALITIES SHOULD MY UROLOGIST HAVE?

Ideally, you should have a competent, technically skilled surgeon who is also approachable and compassionate. You should be able to freely ask questions pertaining to your disease and treatment. Your physician should answer your questions forthrightly. Although some patients prefer a surgeon who will take over all aspects of care with no questions asked, most prefer in depth explanations, especially when alternatives exist and risks are involved.

Your urologist must be an individual who takes your concerns, priorities and values seriously. Your urologist should be a good communicator. It is his responsibility to keep you fully informed of your progress, make you aware immediately if things are not going well, and educate you fully in treatment alternatives. Your specific values should be incorporated into the decision process if alternatives are available. Even if your urologist makes a recommendation and you choose an alternative course (unless you are putting yourself in extreme jeopardy), he should honor your choice and continue his care of you. Becoming an educated patient will make your decision making process easier. Granted, your physician should provide you with the basics, however having time to review and digest the material will allow you to fully understand and accept your treatment regimen, providing you with peace of mind.

Beware of the physician who bombards you with statistics and studies and leaves the decision making to you. After all, you are not a physician and don’t have the practical hands on experience he does. Your physician should provide the facts and the statistics, guide you through the information, and make treatment recommendations based on your preferences.

You may find yourself emotionally distraught and overwhelmed. Having a physician on your side is invaluable. You should be able to trust your physician. Complete honesty on the part of your doctor in his care of you is a must. From the doctor’s point of view, trust is also a necessity. Physicians have an extremely difficult time dealing with individuals who do not trust them. Without trust, the physician patient relationship is extremely hindered.

Lastly, your urologist should be compassionate. Having cancer is tough enough, you shouldn’t have to deal with a rude or arrogant physician. Your urologist should be supportive at all times. He should treat you as an individual and not just as “another cancer patient.” People with bladder cancer will require long term follow up and care. Having a compassionate individual to work with will make a tremendous difference

HOW DO I FIND A GOOD BOARD CERTIFIED UROLOGIST?

A good starting point is your primary care physician. He will generally have a number of specialists to whom he generally refers his urology patients. If the primary care physician has been working with these urologists, he should have an appreciation of their skills and temperament. However, this does not mean he is referring you necessarily to the best available urologist in your area. His choices may be limited by insurance or hospital networks. An excellent source of information would be nurses who work in the operating room, recovery room or on the surgical floor where the urologist does his surgery. Asking friends or other individuals who have had experience with the urologist can also prove useful. After a little digging, you can often quickly learn what type of reputation the urologist has in the community. Generally, if an established urologist has a “good reputation” this is an indication that he has pleased many individuals with his care.

SHOULD I CHECK TO SEE HOW MANY TIMES MY UROLOGIST HAS BEEN SUED?

Given the litigious society we live in, most physicians can face at least one malpractice lawsuit during their careers. In urology, two of the most common causes of litigation would be a surgical mishap leading to a complication, or failure to diagnose cancer in a timely fashion.

Medicine is based on science, but also is an “art.” Individuals do not walk into their physicians offices with a diagnosis and treatment plan always readily apparent. Even the best intentioned, thorough physician will make mistakes. Most of these errors do not result in harm. On occasion they do, and a law suit may follow. If a physician develops a good working relationship with a patient, these bad outcomes more often than not are acknowledged and accepted without legal entanglement. Competent, busy physicians may be dealing with a higher mix of complicated patients, leading to a higher number of potential suits. Physicians who have poor “bed side manner” may find themselves dealing with more suits. If a physician has an inordinate number of suits, “red flags” should go up, as competency may be an issue.

For those individuals who wish to check out the malpractice history of their physician, you may request an inquiry from the National Practitioners Data Bank at: 1-800-767-6732 or check the web site: www.npdb-hipdb.com

Our use of the term or terms Actos Side Effects is for descriptive purposes only. There is no relationship between the owners of this website and the maker of the product discussed in this post. Our use of the words Recall, Class Action Lawsuit and other similar words related to an event do not necessarily mean that this event has occurred. Refer to the website of the United States Food and Drug Administration for information on drug or medical device recalls. If a Class Action Lawsuit is formed in relation to the product discussed in this post we will provide that information at the time the Class Action is formed. A Class Action Lawsuit is not required to exist for you to file a lawsuit if you have been injured by the product discussed in this post.

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MY FAMILY WANTS ME TO GO FOR TREATMENT OF MY BLADDER CANCER TO THE “TEACHING HOSPITAL” IN THE CITY MY LOCAL UROLOGIST IS COMPETENT AND CARING AND I TRUST HIS JUDGEMENT SHOULD I LISTEN TO MY FAMILY AND SWITCH UROLOGISTS?

As we have discussed in the preceding questions, finding an excellent urologist to partner with is a must. A physician established at a “teaching hospital” (a hospital where physicians are trained in their respective fields of specialty) is at the minimum, competent. A large teaching or academic center would not risk its reputation on an individual who is sub par. Some individuals may be world class surgeons, but not all will be. An individual may be an average surgeon, but a gifted teacher or researcher, making them invaluable to their academic center. Your local community urologist will likely be an individual trained at one of these academic teaching hospitals. In addition, community hospitals also have credentialing and quality review programs to weed out incompetent physicians. In general, it is true the academic center will have more stringent standards and review of their staff. Nevertheless, excellent physicians can be found at the community hospital as well.

ISN’T IT TRUE THAT ACADEMIC OR TEACHING HOSPITALS WILL HAVE THE BEST TECHNOLOGY OR MOST UP TO DATE INFORMATION TO TREAT MY CANCER?

These hospitals generally are at the forefront of innovation regarding technological advances, testing and implementation of new surgical techniques and chemotherapeutic regimens. However, no one center can be excellent in all spheres of medicine. Each will have particular strengths and weaknesses. We are however, fortunate medical knowledge and innovation are shared openly via medical journals and conferences and other means of information exchange. New information and proven effective techniques are rapidly disseminated throughout the medical community. Some teaching hospitals may be “centers of excellence” for a particular procedure or innovative approach that is available at only a few sites in the country. There is naturally a lag time for some procedures to spread to the local level, and if in fact a new procedure carries substantial benefits compared to the standard, and is not available locally, then a referral may be appropriate.

Medical information is scrutinized in journals and reviewed at conferences. The newest treatment regimens for advanced cancer are explored in clinical trials to determine their efficacy and safety. It is only after they are proven that they become adopted as standard practice by most physicians. For the vast majority of individuals with bladder cancer, excellent, comprehensive treatment can be obtained at the local level. For those requiring more specialized care or for those unfortunate individuals with advanced cancer who desire experimental therapy via a clinical trial for their cancer, a referral to the appropriate center may be appropriate.

IF I HAVE MY MAJOR SURGERY PERFORMED AT A TEACHING HOSPITAL, WILL THE ATTENDING PHYSICIAN PERFORM MY SURGERY AND TAKE CARE OF ME AFTERWARDS?

At a teaching hospital, physicians are in training to master their skills before going out into “practice” in their respective fields. Interns are fresh out of medical school with limited practical training. Often they are referred to as PGY 1 (post graduate year 1). Years of training follow (PGY2, PGY3 etc.). Urology residents are required to generally have at least two years of training in a surgical program followed by four years in urology residency. It is the responsibility of the residency director to provide adequate training for these future urologists while assuring patient safety. Practically speaking, there are usually one or more attending physicians who supervise the work of the physicians in training. The attending physicians are board certified, experienced physicians who treat patients while simultaneously training physicians. The residents will be a key component in your care. They will be assessing you both pre- and post-operatively and will be writing orders directing your care. How much of the surgery they get to do is dependent on their years of training and their skills. They will be under the direct supervision of the attending physician. If you have concerns, you should address them with your attending physician.

MY UROLOGIST ALWAYS KEEPS ME WAITING, DOES THIS MEAN HE DOESN’T CARE?

Given the monetary pressures in today’s medical practice, some physicians are over booked and cannot see the allotted number of patients scheduled without delays. The theory behind this schedule is the expectation that a number of patients will not show for their appointment, allowing the physician to stay true to the schedule and not fall behind.

However, sometimes all of the patients do show, and the physician is delayed. Even with a carefully thought out schedule, emergencies may arise and some visits unexpectedly take longer than scheduled. The physician wants to devote the time and attention required for each individual. After all, you also expect the same time and attention during your visit. Even the most conscientious physician may find himself running behind in a busy medical practice. This lateness should be recognized by the physician who will often acknowledge it with an apology. If you find it distressing to wait more than fifteen minutes (a reasonable time to wait), you should discuss your feelings with your physician, who often can arrange an appointment at the beginning of the schedule when he will almost be guaranteed to be on time.

WILL THERE BE OTHER PHYSICIANS INVOLVED IN MY TREATMENT OF BLADDER CANCER?

You may need to be referred to an oncologist, a physician specialist in the medical therapy of cancer. At times, a referral to a radiation oncologist, a specialist who treats cancer with radiation, may be required. Other individuals may need to be consulted as well. It is important for your urologist to keep your primary care physician up to date so that he can coordinate your care and if required by your insurance plan, make the appropriate referrals.

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On a regular basis, magazine articles, books, and television shows implore those with major illnesses to seek out a second opinion. The general consensus is there is much to be gained and little to be lost, so why not seek out a second opinion? The issue certainly is more complicated than generally addressed, and deserves a review. The following chapter provides a second opinion on second opinions.

WHAT ABOUT SECOND OPINIONS?

In general, a competent physician will recommend a second opinion if there is uncertainty regarding your care. This uncertainty could involve the pathology report or debate regarding the most appropriate treatment options. Certainly if the pathology report is in question, a second opinion is mandatory! Your urologist should be able to spell out his treatment plans for you, what to expect and what alternatives may be required, depending on the seriousness of your disease. The plan may change over time as your disease improves or worsens.

You may need a second opinion if you are not doing well and your physician is unable to provide satisfactory explanations and solutions. Occasionally, your urologist may recommend a second opinion if your problem is unusual or particularly complicated. Having a physician you can trust is mandatory when dealing with cancer. Don’t let anyone pressure you into a second opinion if you feel confident in your physician’s abilities. On the other hand, if you are uncomfortable with your progress or a treatment recommendation, if you are not satisfied with the explanations given to you, don’t hesitate to seek out a second opinion. Your urologist should not feel threatened by this request as he wants you to feel comfortable with the plan of action. Only by partnering with your physician can he be most effective.

WILL MY UROLOGIST BE UPSET WHEN I REQUEST A SECOND OPINION?

Many physicians may feel slighted when a patient requests a second opinion. Your urologist may feel somehow you don’t trust his explanations, skill, or judgment. On the other hand, when a new patient faces a difficult or unexpected diagnosis, the urologist may find the request not at all unusual. It is important you explain to your urologist why you feel a second opinion is warranted. Urologists are professionals and will graciously facilitate your request. The experienced urologist comes to realize that despite his best efforts, some patients will seek a second opinion. If a patient is particularly concerned or nervous about a proposed treatment regimen, your urologist may welcome your request. Your urologist should facilitate your second opinion by sending appropriate records and telling you whether or not it is necessary for you to bring X rays or pathology slides with you. Your primary care physician may need to be contacted for the referral if your insurance requires it.

WHY DOESN’T MY UROLOGIST WANT ME TO GO FOR A SECOND OPINION?

Often, the urologist may believe the second opinion is unnecessary and will delay treatment. He may be concerned you will not only have a second opinion, but transfer your future care to the urologist providing the second opinion. He may believe that you may get bad advice. It is possible he may feel threatened the next urologist will not agree with his work up or care of you to date.

WHERE DO I FIND A SPECIALIST FOR A SECOND OPINION?

Start by asking your primary care physician. You may be able to see another urologist in your community. Do not see another urologist in the same group as a conflict of interest may deter a different opinion. If you are considering a different course of action, such as radiation or chemotherapy, a referral to the appropriate specialist should be made.

Many times your urologist will be highly supportive and suggest a second opinion. He will offer his recommendations and facilitate your visit to the appropriate physician. If there is an issue regarding the care given at your local hospital, you may wish a referral to a “tertiary” or teaching hospital. In most areas, a referral for this reason is unnecessary, as excellent care is obtainable in the community hospital.

Our use of the term or terms Actos Side Effects is for descriptive purposes only. There is no relationship between the owners of this website and the maker of the product discussed in this post. Our use of the words Recall, Class Action Lawsuit and other similar words related to an event do not necessarily mean that this event has occurred. Refer to the website of the United States Food and Drug Administration for information on drug or medical device recalls. If a Class Action Lawsuit is formed in relation to the product discussed in this post we will provide that information at the time the Class Action is formed. A Class Action Lawsuit is not required to exist for you to file a lawsuit if you have been injured by the product discussed in this post.

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Actos Side Effects atients sometimes describe feeling some abdominal pressure or discomfort, but not pain, during the flexible cystoscopy procedure. You will be awake, wearing a gown and lying on an examining table, with your knees draped and held apart. As noted above, your doctor will use anesthetic gel to numb the area where the flexible tube is inserted and then gently guide the cystoscope into the urethral opening (the eye of the penis in a man; the vaginal outlet of the urethra in a woman). Some men experience brief pressure and discomfort as the cystoscope passes over the area where the prostate is located. In most cases, the entire process, including preparation, will take about 15 to 20 minutes, and your doctor will be able to discuss the results of the flexible cystoscopy with you immediately.

The rigid cystoscopy is sometimes done when the tumor is in an inaccessible part of the bladder as well as when a more complicated biopsy is needed. It is performed in a hospital setting and can be either an inpatient or outpatient procedure. While the process is similar to flexible cystoscopy, you will be given general anesthesia and a more rigid tube will be used. Your doctor will give you specific instructions about how to prepare for the anesthesia (you will need to have someone drive you to and from the hospital) and what to expect during the brief recuperation after the procedure. You may be asked to remain overnight if you have other medical problems, such as severe heart disease.

During the IVP, you’ll be lying on a flat table, wearing a hospital gown, with the x-ray machine positioned above you on a movable jointed arm. The radiologist will take some basic x-rays and then will inject a contrast substance (usually iodine) through a vein, usually in your arm. The iodine is carried by the blood system to the kidneys, where it is removed (excreted into the urine). The iodine shows up when exposed in an x-ray. You might feel a sense of heat or burning from the iodine or have a metallic taste in your mouth. However, these sensations usually disappear after a few minutes. If you know that you are allergic to iodine, let the radiologist know and a different contrast material can be used.

As the iodine travels through your urinary tract system, a quick series of x-rays is snapped. Sometimes the radiologist will apply a gentle compression elastic band around your body to help the visualization process. You may be asked to turn over and might even be asked to empty your bladder. (The iodine should not cause any discoloration of your urine or any pain or burning during urination.) The x-rays taken before the iodine was injected and those taken after provide images for your doctor that give a visual picture of the ureters (the tubes between the kidneys and bladder) and the bladder’s anatomy and function.

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The technologist then moves a transducer (an imaging gadget shaped somewhat like an oversized electric shaver with a flat head) over the area where the bladder is located. You probably will be asked to change positions or even to hold your breath for a few seconds during the process. The technologist watches on a screen to make sure that clear images are being recorded.

If any of the tests suggest the presence of a bladder tumor, your doctor will schedule other tests; they might include an MRI or a CT scan, and if a biopsy was not obtained during the flexible cystoscopy process, a surgical biopsy as well. These tests help your doctor determine where the tumors are, what type of cancer you have, and whether the cancer has invaded the muscle wall of the bladder. Depending on the results of those tests, your doctor may order a chest x-ray or even a bone scan to determine whether the cancer has spread to other areas of the body.

A CT scan is a painless, noninvasive test during which low intensity x-rays are repeatedly passed through the body’s soft tissue at different angles. A computer then processes the x-rays to show a detailed cross-section of the tissues and organs – in your case, of the bladder, liver, spleen, abdominal lymph nodes, and surrounding tissues. Sometimes the scanner will be focused on the chest and lungs to see whether cancer has spread there. From the CT scan, your doctor not only can confirm the presence of a tumor in the bladder, but can also measure its size and location, and determine whether it has spread to other nearby tissue.

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The CT scanner can snap about 32 cross-section pictures or “slices” in approximately 10 seconds as the machine moves over your body. This means that you can easily hold your breath as the images are taken. For the CT scan, you’ll be lying on a table, dressed in a gown, and while you’ll be able to talk with the radiology technicians at all times over an intercom, you’ll be alone in the room and asked to lie still and hold your breath while the actual x-rays are being taken.

Like the IVP, a contrast medium is used to help the radiologist see your bladder and urinary tract. Sometimes it may be injected into the veins, as in IVP, or it may be swallowed or sometimes administered as an enema to distinguish bowel tissue from the bladder structure. Usually when diagnosing bladder cancer, doctors will want all three – intravenous, oral, and rectal scans – to help determine how deeply tumors may have invaded the bladder tissue and whether there is any spread to the abdominal lymph nodes or liver.

Some people find the taste of the contrast medium unpleasant, and if an enema is required, you’re likely to feel a brief, uncomfortable fullness while the scans are being taken. However, because of the speed of the process, the feeling that you need to expel the contrast medium doesn’t last long. You might also feel a brief flush or hot sensation when the contrast medium is injected. A CT scan takes anywhere from 5 to 30 minutes. Other than mild discomfort, there are few side effects.

Our use of the term or terms Actos Side Effects is for descriptive purposes only. There is no relationship between the owners of this website and the maker of the product discussed in this post. Our use of the words Recall, Class Action Lawsuit and other similar words related to an event do not necessarily mean that this event has occurred. Refer to the website of the United States Food and Drug Administration for information on drug or medical device recalls. If a Class Action Lawsuit is formed in relation to the product discussed in this post we will provide that information at the time the Class Action is formed. A Class Action Lawsuit is not required to exist for you to file a lawsuit if you have been injured by the product discussed in this post.

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Actos Side Effects : The MRI machine is a big metal box with a tunnel through its middle and a narrow sliding table. You’ll lie on the sliding table, which will move you slowly through the electromagnetic field or “tunnel” of the MRI machine. An MRI can take anywhere from 15 to 45 minutes. Some MRI machines are closed cylinders; others have wider tunnels and open sides to reduce the claustrophobic feelings that some peo­ple experience. If you suffer from claustrophobia – the fear of close or enclosed spaces – you should warn your doctor that you might not be comfortable having an MRI scan.

You’ll wear a gown, and as with the CT scan, the radiology techni­cians leave the room during the scanning process, but you’ll be able to communicate with them through an intercom. Sometimes a friend or relative is permitted to sit in the room with you, particularly if you are claustrophobic. Sometimes if you are claustrophobic a gentle sedative is used to help you to feel comfortable in the machine. Sometimes a contrast medium is used, usually intravenous, in which case you might experience a cool sensation. YouTl be asked to remain very still for short periods while the images are being taken, usually anywhere from a few seconds to a few minutes at a time. You’ll be able to move slightly between “takes” or images.

Other than what many patients describe as a “closed-in” feeling, the single most uncomfortable part of an MRI is not being able to move about. Sometimes you’ll also hear a banging sound as the scans are being taken. This can be surprisingly noisy. Many physicians feel that the MRI scanner is a useful alternative to the CT scanner, but results can be more difficult to interpret when the MRI scan is focused on the back of the abdomen, the pelvis, and bladder, so generally CT scans are more frequently used.

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Usually performed under general anesthesia in a hospital, a biopsy via a rigid cystoscope allows the physician to examine your bladder manually for any abnormalities (again, by inserting a finger into the rectum and feeling the local tissues) and then to remove small amounts of tissue. These can then be examined microscopically and used to confirm the presence of cancer and the invasiveness of the disease, as well as to help determine the appropriate treatment.

Sometimes, in the case of small or superficial tumors, the physician will remove the entire tumor and surrounding tissue for biopsy. As with all surgeries or invasive procedures, a biopsy may involve some pain as well as a brief recovery time that might call for some limita­tions on physical activities for a day or two. The urologist will pre­scribe pain-relieving medication to reduce the severity of discomfort.

A chest x-ray is a type of x-ray process that takes about 10 min­utes. You’ll wear a gown and remain standing during the x-ray. The radiology technician will ask you to stand in several positions and will take x-rays of the chest area. It’s a painless process and doesn’t require that you inject or drink any contrast medium. This test can indicate whether the cancer has spread to the lungs and also can reveal other, unrelated medical conditions, such as a chest infection. A bone scan uses a very small amount of a radioactive tracer injected into the bloodstream. Bone absorbs the tracer, which gives off gamma rays; these are then scanned to identify areas of abnormality. The purpose of this test is to monitor for the presence of cancer metastases in the bones, but it can also detect infection or arthritis sometimes.

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It’s a time-consuming test. It takes about three hours for the bone to absorb the tracer after it’s injected into your vein (usually in an arm). What usually happens is that after the tracer is injected, you’ll leave for a few hours or wait in the waiting room. (Bring a book.) The scan itself will take about an hour. For the scan, you’ll lie on a stationary table while a big cylinder ~ actually a gamma camera – moves up and down the table taking pictures. The cylinder doesn’t enclose you to the extent that an MRI machine does and usually doesn’t provoke a claustrophobic feeling. As with a CT or MRI scan, you’ll lie on a table, wearing a gown, and will have to remain still when the gamma camera is clicking away, sometimes for several minutes at a time. You’ll be asked to change positions several times during the scan, a welcome relief after you’ve had to remain motionless.

Sometimes tests on the urine are done to determine the presence of biomarkers. These are proteins that may be liberated by bladder-cancer cells into the urine. One example is the NMP22 or Bladder Check test For this, a few drops of voided urine are tested chemically on a glass slide. Some physicians believe that the NMP22 is more sensitive and more accurate than the more conventional cytology test, in which urine is examined for cancer cells under a microscope.

Our use of the term or terms Actos Side Effects is for descriptive purposes only. There is no relationship between the owners of this website and the maker of the product discussed in this post. Our use of the words Recall, Class Action Lawsuit and other similar words related to an event do not necessarily mean that this event has occurred. Refer to the website of the United States Food and Drug Administration for information on drug or medical device recalls. If a Class Action Lawsuit is formed in relation to the product discussed in this post we will provide that information at the time the Class Action is formed. A Class Action Lawsuit is not required to exist for you to file a lawsuit if you have been injured by the product discussed in this post.

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Actos Side Effects: Roughly 5-10 percent of patients experience a fever after a transurethral procedure. This is almost always due to a urinary tract infection. The most common symptoms of a urinary tract infection in this setting are fever, chills, side pain, and frequent or painftil urination. If you experience a fever postoperatively, you should contact your physician immediately. The vast majority of infections can be treated as an outpatient with oral antibiotics and resolve in several days. Most urologists give you antibiotics during your procedure and for a few days thereafter to prevent infection, but unfortunately a small percentage of patients will still experience an infection despite taking antibiotics. It is important to note that most patients have lower urinary tract symptoms after surgery. This is directly related to the manipulation from the cystoscope and any biopsies or resection that were performed. These procedures cause bladder and urethral inflammation, which may cause you to experience painful urination, urinary frequency, and urgency for several days after the procedure. These symp­toms are very similar to that of a urinary tract infection and can be confusing, but they do not cause fever like a urinary tract infection. If you are unsure whether your symptoms are a result of an infection or the procedure, the safest bet is to consult your urologist as soon as possible.

Urinary retention (inability to pass the urine) is another uncommon and generally self-limiting complication one can experience after surgery. In men, this is often caused by swelling of the prostate due to manipulation from the cystoscope. Excessive bleeding may also result in clot formation that can obstruct the flow of urine. Patients who experience this side effect urinate in small volumes or not at all, even though their bladder is uncomfortably full. The treatment for this is simple; a catheter is placed in your bladder for a few days to allow any edema (swelling) to resolve. The catheter can then be removed several days later and most patients void without difficulty at that point.

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Radical cystectomy and associated urinary diversion is a complex procedure. Even in the best of hands, the potential for side effects and complications is significant. The most common side effects and complications related to this procedure are discussed below. Although this will give you a good understanding of what to expect after surgery, it is very important that you discuss the risks of cystectomy with your urologist before surgery to be as fully informed and prepared as possible.

As with any major surgery, there is potential for bleeding during your surgery. Twenty-five to 50 percent of patients need a blood transfusion either during surgery or in the immediate postoperative period. Your surgeon may ask you to donate your own blood before surgery, so that it can be given back to you at the time of your operation. This is to minimize the risk of infection with transfusion-related bloodbome illnesses such as HIV and hepatitis. Because this risk is extremely low, many surgeons do not require you to donate your own blood. Your blood count will be monitored for the first several days after surgery because in rare circumstances bleeding can occur after surgery. Depending on your blood count at the time of discharge, your physician may send you home on iron supplementation.

There is a small risk of infection after surgery. Post- surgical infections can occur in the abdominal wound, intra-abdominally at the site of bladder removal, and also in the urine (urinary tract infection) or kidney (pyelonephritis). Most infections can be successfully treated with antibiotics. Wound infections can require a portion of your incision to be opened to allow drainage of infected material. This is easily done at the bedside and is not painful. Once the infection clears, the wound heals on its own without any further therapy.

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Sexual function is often affected after cystectomy and is a major quality of life issue for both men and women under­going this procedure. In men, the vas deferens (the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles) are cut, resulting in infertility. Although infertility is not a major issue for most men undergoing cystectomy, you should discuss this with your urologist before surgery if you are planning to have children in the future. Because the nerves responsible for erection are located along the base of the prostate, erectile dysfunction is a common side effect after surgery. In high­ly selected cases, these nerves can be spared at the time of surgery, leading to improved potency outcomes. Erec­tile function after surgery depends on three main factors: age, preoperative function, and nerve sparing at the time of surgery.

Young men who have good erectile function before surgery are much more likely to have erectile func­tion afterward than older men or those with preexisting erectile dysfunction. There are a variety of options to help with ED following surgery including the use of vacuum devices, oral medications (i.e., Viagra, Levitra, or Cialis), injection of medications directly into the penis, or a pe­nile implant. In recent years there has been a trend toward preservation of the female sexual organs at the time of cystectomy, including the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and vagina. Such organ preservation strategies have also led to improved sexual function in women undergoing radical cystectomy.

Our use of the term or terms Actos Side Effects is for descriptive purposes only. There is no relationship between the owners of this website and the maker of the product discussed in this post. Our use of the words Recall, Class Action Lawsuit and other similar words related to an event do not necessarily mean that this event has occurred. Refer to the website of the United States Food and Drug Administration for information on drug or medical device recalls. If a Class Action Lawsuit is formed in relation to the product discussed in this post we will provide that information at the time the Class Action is formed. A Class Action Lawsuit is not required to exist for you to file a lawsuit if you have been injured by the product discussed in this post.

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Actos Side Effects: Bladder cancer, or any serious potentially life threatening illness is generally alien to most individuals. Suddenly, lives are changed and a new reality must be dealt with. Becoming a “patient” or worse “a cancer patient” is not only threatening, but a dreaded proposition. Cancer patients are not happy with the loss of autonomy, the invasion of privacy, the discomfort inflicted upon them and the demands on their time and quality of life. As a patient, being thrust into this altered identity, it is essential to seek out the information you need. Having a fundamental base of knowledge is a must when facing the issues and treatment decisions which lie ahead. In the following pages, together we will explore bladder cancer, a disease which is totally foreign to most of us until the diagnosis is made. I have chosen to present the information in a question and answer format, written in a conversational tone, as if I were having an extended consultation with one of my patients. The questions are typical of what individuals have asked over the years. 1 have covered the key issues and decisions the individual with bladder cancer may face. The answers are to the point and cover the essentials required to make an informed decision for most individuals. For others, a more detailed resource may be required. For helpful sources of additional information see the Appendix.

Each individual’s situation is unique. Decisions on treatment may be modified based on the patient’s preferences and values and altered by other considerations such as age and coexisting conditions. By becoming an individual knowledgeable of bladder cancer, you will be prepared to fully partner with your physician for your best possible outcome. To your companions and family members, this book will serve to answer the many questions and doubts that may arise. Having your loved ones informed and supportive is a big plus for the individual facing this new challenge.

The book is written in a logical sequence starting with finding a qualified urologist to the basics on bladder cancer, its assessment and treatment. At the end of the book, you will find chapters on complementary medicine, advance care planning, and hospice care. The book can be read in sequence or each chapter can serve as a resource covering the basics of the topic. It is my hope this book will help clarify the many issues and options individuals must face with bladder cancer. For family members, significant others and concerned friends, this resource should help improve your understanding and thus your ability to assist your loved one.

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Surgery is a skill which can only be mastered with experience. The saying “practice makes perfect” definitely pertains to surgery. Although a urology training program offers the new physician years of training, his surgical skills will continue to improve with further experience. However, each individual physician has his own innate skills. Some more quickly learn and are simply better at the technical craft of surgery than others. For the most part, urologists finishing an accredited urology program have the training and skill set required to care for patients with bladder cancer.

Experience also counts. As a physician practices the art of medicine, his depth of knowledge and ability to treat grows. Ask your physician how long he has been treating patients with bladder cancer. If you require major surgery ask how many he has performed and if his complication rate matches what is expected.

Physicians by and large do improve as they practice, and all physicians are required to show that they are continuing to learn by partaking in continuing medical education, a requirement to remain licensed. Most physicians are compulsive in their medical practice and care deeply in the care they deliver. They continually strive to improve.

Some physicians may become “burned out” over the years as they continue to face the pressures of a busy medical practice. Similarly, towards the end of a surgeon’s career, technical skills may slip due to aging. New urologists are trained in the latest techniques and are familiar with recent medical literature, but may lack practical experience. In the end, recommendations from others and reputation may be your best guide to finding a qualified physician.

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Your urologist must be an individual who takes your concerns, priorities and values seriously. Your urologist should be a good communicator. It is his responsibility to keep you fully informed of your progress, make you aware immediately if things are not going well, and educate you fully in treatment alternatives. Your specific values should be incorporated into the decision process if alternatives are available. Even if your urologist makes a recommendation and you choose an alternative course (unless you are putting yourself in extreme jeopardy), he should honor your choice and continue his care of you. Becoming an educated patient will make your decision making process easier. Granted, your physician should provide you with the basics, however having time to review and digest the material will allow you to fully understand and accept your treatment regimen, providing you with peace of mind.

Beware of the physician who bombards you with statistics and studies and leaves the decision making to you. After all, you are not a physician and don’t have the practical hands on experience he does. Your physician should provide the facts and the statistics, guide you through the information, and make treatment recommendations based on your preferences.

You may find yourself emotionally distraught and overwhelmed. Having a physician on your side is invaluable. You should be able to trust your physician. Complete honesty on the part of your doctor in his care of you is a must. From the doctor’s point of view, trust is also a necessity. Physicians have an extremely difficult time dealing with individuals who do not trust them. Without trust, the physician patient relationship is extremely hindered.

Lastly, your urologist should be compassionate. Having cancer is tough enough, you shouldn’t have to deal with a rude or arrogant physician. Your urologist should be supportive at all times. He should treat you as an individual and not just as “another cancer patient.” People with bladder cancer will require long term follow up and care. Having a compassionate individual to work with will make a tremendous difference.

Our use of the term or terms Actos Side Effects is for descriptive purposes only. There is no relationship between the owners of this website and the maker of the product discussed in this post. Our use of the words Recall, Class Action Lawsuit and other similar words related to an event do not necessarily mean that this event has occurred. Refer to the website of the United States Food and Drug Administration for information on drug or medical device recalls. If a Class Action Lawsuit is formed in relation to the product discussed in this post we will provide that information at the time the Class Action is formed. A Class Action Lawsuit is not required to exist for you to file a lawsuit if you have been injured by the product discussed in this post.

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