Are you awake during a cystoscopy?

Let’s talk about cystoscopies, one of the most dreaded medical procedures in history. For those who haven’t experienced it yet, you’re probably asking yourself: are you awake during a cystoscopy? Well, the short answer is yes – and that alone generates fear for some. However, fear not my friends! We’ll explore every detail of this “delightful” procedure so that you will be fully prepared for your upcoming appointment.

What Is A Cystoscopy Anyway?

Let’s start with the basics: what exactly is a cystoscopy? It sounds like rocket science but it’s actually pretty simple (that didn’t sound reassuring at all). Doctors use this procedure to look inside your bladder using a small telescope-like device called a cystoscope. This device helps them diagnose issues such as urinary tract infections or blood in your urine caused by kidney stones or bladder tumors.

How Do I Prepare For My Cystoscopy?

Now that we know why someone would undergo such an unorthodoxly intimate examination let’s get practical on how to prepare ourselves for our big day (yay). Here are some things to keep in mind:

Stop Taking Certain Medications

Before getting into the detailed prep process here’s step one: if you take any medication containing blood thinners (aspirin or warfarin), ibuprofen products or supplements like ginkgo biloba- stop taking these at least five days before scheduled surgery (try not forget).

Mandatory Breath Freshener

It is required (totally) mandatory before undergoing any type of exam involving another person accessing various private parts of your body– brush teeth thoroughly and don’t forget mouthwash; coffee breath won’t help anyone ease into things (believe me).

Invite A Buddy

A buddy can help calm nerves (slightly) while waiting; a friend or significant other can accompany you (a must unless your entertainment selection on your phone is truly top-notch).

Wardrobe Change

Wear non-restrictive, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the bladder area. No awkward moments of struggling with buttons and zippers, please.

Optional Comfort Items

If feeling particularly anxious or just want more comfort consider bringing:

• Your favourite pillow or blanket – this creates an environment of coziness and familiarity
• Music player / Earbuds – fine-tune listening pleasure while waiting (recommended)
• Stress ball – for the stress-relieving moments (or when squeezed by mistake)

(Optional things are totally optional…but definitely bring music)

The Cystoscopy Procedure Itself (Finally)

Ok, let’s do this! takes deep breath

Anesthesia (The Best Part)

First things first, local anaesthetic jelly will be used to numb the urethra (applause). They may also give oral medication like diazepam to help calm nerves beforehand if requested. Yes- drugs make everything better.

Choosing Your Position

Next step involves adopting one of several positions: lying on the back with legs spread apart in stirrups OR being seated upright facing toward doctor OR leaning backward onto table with feet slightly elevated. Whatever makes you feel as comfortable so go ahead and find the right sweet spot (literally no shame here)

Instrument Placement

Once relaxed it’s time for instrument placement: after lubrication puts cystoscope slowly into urethra whilst steadily advancing up till reaching opening of bladder – then glance inside preparing oneself for surprisingly clear sight

A transurethral resection of prostate (TURP) might be added but don’t worry they take care not damage any important tissues near insertion point (\~aww how thoughtful\~)

Closing Time (Thankfully)

Closing time; the cystoscope is removed as slowly as possible This allows for reducing any tear or abrasion on its way out.

Possible Complications

Now that we’ve taken a swift, yet intimate trip into someone’s bladder, let’s talk about some of the complications that could occur during and after the procedure:

Blood in Urine & Pain

It is completely normal to see blood when urinating afterwards or experience discomforting pain. If symptoms feel really uncomfortable specialist may write prescription for medication to ease these specific side effects.

Infection

Urinary tract infections can also happen after catheterisation so if anything feels off just contact doctor immediately.

Other Huge Problems?

Let me be clear – serious problems are rare but in case an emergency takes place don’t hesitate flagging staff down right away (keeping calm is key)

Final Thoughts (Phew…)

That’s it folks! Now you know what undergoing cystoscopy entails and every other detail that directly affects your body: from preparation stage all the way until crossing state line while humming Beyonce songs (just sayin’). Just remember- it isn’t nearly this bad so stay positive!

This article isn’t meant to scare anyone (even though it might) but instead inform individuals making sure they’re comfortable knowing everything surrounding their upcoming appointment with a urologist. Keep staying healthy and don’t forget those seriously needed stress balls. Take care everybody!!