Urinary Incontinence: Insights for Concerned Families

Q: Urinary Incontinence: Insights for Concerned Families

Hello： Can cartilage suddenly grow on the right side of the bladder? --- No, it cannot. <br>Please have your mother ask for clarification during the next appointment. <br>If she is currently seeing a clinic, it is advisable to switch to a hospital's urology department for further

Do I have urinary incontinence?

Hello, Doctor.
My mother recently felt that she might be experiencing urinary incontinence, so she went to see a urologist.
(My mother is currently 63 years old.
She had a hysterectomy at 40.
She has been in menopause for about six years.
She underwent hemorrhoid surgery last year.) When she visited the doctor, he prescribed two medications: BETHANECHOL and Oxybutynin.
After taking them for three days, she returned for a follow-up appointment, during which an ultrasound was performed.
The doctor mentioned that there was a cartilage-like mass on the right side of her bladder.
My mother did not ask the doctor what exactly this mass was, whether she should be concerned, or if any further tests should be arranged.
The doctor continued to prescribe the same two medications for her.
I would like to ask the doctor: Is it common for a cartilage-like mass to suddenly develop on the right side of the bladder? Or do you think she should see another specialist for a more detailed examination? I apologize, as I have anxiety and cannot accompany my mother to her appointments.
I cannot find similar information online for reference.
I kindly ask for your advice.
Thank you.

Gao Xiaomei, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/05/30

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: Can cartilage suddenly grow on the right side of the bladder? --- No, it cannot.
Please have your mother ask for clarification during the next appointment.
If she is currently seeing a clinic, it is advisable to switch to a hospital's urology department for further evaluation.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2024/05/30

More Info

Urinary incontinence, or the involuntary loss of urine, is a common issue that can significantly affect the quality of life, especially in older adults. In your mother's case, her recent experiences with urinary symptoms warrant a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying causes and appropriate treatment options.

Firstly, it’s important to understand that urinary incontinence can arise from various factors, including anatomical changes, hormonal changes due to menopause, and underlying medical conditions. Given that your mother is 63 years old and has undergone a hysterectomy at 40, she may be experiencing changes related to aging and hormonal fluctuations. The fact that she has been in menopause for about six years could also contribute to changes in the pelvic floor and bladder function.

The medications prescribed to your mother, Bethanechol and Oxybutynin, serve different purposes. Bethanechol is typically used to stimulate bladder contractions, which can help with urinary retention, while Oxybutynin is an anticholinergic medication that helps reduce bladder spasms and urgency. It’s crucial to monitor her response to these medications and report any side effects or lack of improvement to her healthcare provider.

Regarding the ultrasound finding of a "soft tissue mass" or something resembling cartilage in the bladder, this is a significant observation that should not be overlooked. While it is not common for cartilage-like structures to develop in the bladder, it could represent a variety of conditions, including a benign growth, a fibroepithelial polyp, or even a more concerning pathology. It is essential to follow up on this finding with further diagnostic imaging or possibly a cystoscopy, which allows direct visualization of the bladder and can help in obtaining a biopsy if necessary.

If your mother did not ask the doctor about the mass during her visit, it would be advisable for you to contact the healthcare provider's office for clarification. Understanding the nature of this mass is critical for determining the next steps in her care. If the current urologist is not providing sufficient information or reassurance, seeking a second opinion from another urologist or even a gynecologist specializing in pelvic health may be beneficial.

In terms of managing her anxiety about medical visits, consider discussing with her the possibility of telemedicine appointments, where she can consult with a doctor from the comfort of home. This could alleviate some of her fears and allow her to ask questions in a less stressful environment.

Lastly, it’s important to encourage your mother to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including pelvic floor exercises (Kegel exercises), which can strengthen the muscles that support the bladder and improve incontinence symptoms. Additionally, lifestyle modifications such as dietary changes, fluid management, and bladder training techniques can also be beneficial.

In summary, urinary incontinence is a multifaceted issue that requires a comprehensive approach. Given the ultrasound findings, it is crucial to pursue further evaluation to understand the nature of the mass in the bladder. Open communication with healthcare providers and seeking second opinions when necessary can empower both you and your mother in managing her health concerns effectively.

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