I had my appointment for a consultation with a urologist today!
It went so well. The doctor knew all about IC and seemed to think I did my homework and that IC is very likely but is going to rule out everything else first such as overactive bladder and bladder cancer -which he did say is a risk due to my years of smoking but I won't let myself worry about that yet- and whatever else. He scheduled me all the tests I need in about 5 and a half weeks..
Tests that will happen on the 23rd of August:
A uroflow test which is measuring how quickly my urine comes out.
A CMG which will evaluate the activity or pressure inside of my bladder.
An EMG which will record the activity of the sphincter muscle and the pelvic floor muscles.
A Leak point pressure test which will be be coughing, sneezing, and jumping to test leakage when bladder is full.
A pressure flow study which measures the pressures of my urinary flow.
And final and MOST important test is the Cystoscopy which is where they will put a thin telescope like tube with a light into my bladder through the urethra so the doctor can examine my lower urinary tract which includes the urethra, prostate, bladder neck, and bladder.
The doctor is clearly constantly busy and booked so our time was short but he clearly took me seriously and understood the magnitude of my suffering. I felt heard and I felt he was going to do what it takes to give me answers and treatment. I wanted to cry when I left the office because this was so long overdue. In FL I couldn't get these tests and then I wasted some months after I got here because my pain was so bad and I felt it wouldn't really be easy to get medicaid. But finally, the ball is steadily rolling and everything is in place. Now, I just need to get my MN ID which I STILL don't have so I can also apply for food stamps to help me through this difficult time.
Thanks Dr. Shawn McGee for being awesome and thank you Minnesota for caring about your people!
Get these badges I made here.