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Dos and Don’ts after a cystoscopy for fast recovery

Goficure - Blog Page - Dos and Don’ts after a cystoscopy for fast recovery (Blog Post) Last Updated April 27, 2024

Overview

A urologist performs a cystoscopy to diagnose and treat urinary tract problems.

The cystoscopy procedure is performed to view the bladder that stores the urine and the urethra which is a tube through which the urine flows out of the body. In this procedure, the healthcare provider inserts a thin, lighted tube with a camera called a cystoscope to examine and treat the problem.

A urologist will perform a cystoscopy to diagnose and treat:

  • Urinary tract problems
  • Bladder stones
  • Urethral strictures
  • Painful urination or dysuria
  • Blood in the urine or hematuria
  • Urinary retention
  • Bladder control problems

Recovery from a cystoscopy procedure depends on the type of procedure and your health condition.

How long does it take to recover after a cystoscopy procedure?

A cystoscopy is of two types:

Flexible cystoscopy

A flexible cystoscopy is a simple procedure mainly done to look into the inside of the urinary tract and diagnose the problem. The urologist uses a flexible, bendy cystoscope for examination. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia.

Rigid cystoscopy

A rigid cystoscopy is slightly complicated and is used to diagnose and treat the problem. You are either put to sleep or the lower body is numbed. The cystoscope is rigid and does not bend.

A flexible cystoscopy is an outpatient procedure in a doctor’s clinic or hospital that takes only 5 to 15 minutes to perform. You can go home shortly after the procedure once you empty your bladder. You can return to your daily, normal activities the same day or possibly the next day.

A rigid cystoscopy is slightly longer and takes about half an hour to perform as the main aim is to treat the medical condition. After the procedure, you may need to stay for a few hours under observation in the hospital. Some people are discharged on the same day or might have to stay overnight if needed.

Recovery is slightly longer in rigid cystoscopy. You have to take a few days off from work. The doctor will ask you to rest at home for two to three days.

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Dos – Things to do to recover faster from a cystoscopy

Common side effects after a cystoscopy:

  • Mild discomfort and pain as the anesthesia wears off
  • A burning sensation while urinating
  • Traces of blood in the urine
  • There may be some tissue fragments in the urine
  • Frequent urination for one or two days

Drink a lot of water and fluids to flush out the irritants. Consult your doctor about over-the-counter pain medications for relief.

Apply a warm, damp cloth to relieve the pain and discomfort. If your doctor permits bathing, you can start taking warm baths to ease the pain.

Avoid sexual activities and rigorous work until your doctor permits.

Take your advised prescription medications on time, but do not take extra Tylenol to reduce pain. If you are experiencing increased pain, consult your doctor for a change of medication or increased dosage. The pain may be due to some post-surgery complications and needs a proper diagnosis.

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Don’ts – Things to avoid after a cystoscopy

Here are a few activities that you should avoid after a cystoscopy procedure:

  • Overexertion which can lead to increased pain, urinary bleeding, and delayed recovery
  • Eating spicy foods
  • Not taking proper rest
  • Resuming work immediately, especially after a rigid cystoscopy

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Final words

A cystoscopy is relatively a quick procedure and people can usually return to work within a day. People who have undergone a rigid cystoscopy may take a few more days to recover.

It is important to follow medical advice to avoid complications. Contact your medical provider if you are having:

  • Excessive pain or bleeding
  • Painful urination for a longer duration
  • High fever
  • Blood clots in the urine
  • Foul-smelling urine
  • Pain in the lower back
  • General sickness

 

Dos
  • Increase liquid and water intake after the procedure
  • Take adequate rest for healing
  • Avoid sexual activities for a few days until full recovery
Don'ts
  • Indulge in stressful activities
  • Take an increased dosage of pain medications without a doctor’s consultation
  • Drink alcohol

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