I've had some minor but annoying bladder pain the last couple of weeks but my urine test came out completely clean. I did a little research and found that lower urinary problems are associated with RA, lupis, and other auto immune disorders. I'm dealing with this with my GP but wondering if my Rd should be involved. Has anyone dealt with this issue?
I've had repeat UTI and Bladder infections over the years. Honestly my OB has always treated mine; but I really like my OB so I see her for it and anything even slightly personal. I'm not sure the RD would be best or not. I'd think not. My OB has talked about referring me to a urologist on several occations....but things clear up and I'm avoiding that guy until absolutely nessesary!! I hear that's not real pleasant. I'm not too anxious to go there.
Hard to believe a urine test wouldn't pick up anything though. Mines always crystal clear.
What makes you so sure it's bladder related? When mine has gotten into my bladder I have horrible back pain; but often never related it to that until the doctor confirmed it.
Hey... glad someone brought this up. I have problems more when I am flaring that it seems as if I don't either empty properly or I constantly have to go. I go before getting into bed, lay there for about a half hour or so and then I have to get back up again because the urge is there.
I have Lupus Nephritis but my Kidney doctor has stated that that wouldn't be causing the problem. Now I guess I need to further question this. As you have pointed out I know now that I am not alone in this one.
Let us know what your PCP says and what the outcome is. Curious ...
My GP says it may be bladder spasms, which can occur without infection. I've been reading about interstitial cystitis which is probably another autoimmune disease. It sounds awful- I hope I don't have the beginning of that!!! I also wondered if it could be RA causing inflamation of ligaments or other connective tissue surrounding the abdominal organs. She said maybe but let's check some other things.
Olive , Check out this info: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/medicalnews.php?newsid=46693
This is why I wonder if the RD should get involved. Is urgency your only symptom or do you have vague pain? I have been feeling the same urgency when I go to bed, but I sleep all night so I don't feel like I have the overactive bladder like the people on those commercials. However, I wonder if this is only the beginning!
I'm like that at night myself. I go to the bathroom sometimes three times before I can get to sleep. Weird.
I also wake up during the night at least once to go.
Keep us updated on your situation Jody.....it might be something that affects more of us than we realize.
I'm glad also that someone else brought this up! I go all the time! Atleast 2 times in middle of night, but the worst part is that I have the urge and only a little comes out, stops, a little more, and stops... goes on atleast 4 times, then when I still have the urge, and feel like I still need to go, nothing more comes out. I do drink alot of water because my mouth is so dry from all these drugs, but I know I'm not emptying the bladder at all whenever I go. I must go atleast 20 times a day!! Is this all part of RA?When my RA first came on I noticed I was also having bladder problems. Thanks for the article. This RA stuff is so scary that I don't think the Rhuematoligists even want to tell us all the systemic things that can happen!
I have the same problem, especially when I'm having a flare. I get up at least twice during the night to go and have to go about every hour when awake. I also have fibromyalgia and wonder if there is a muscle connection.Thanks telling your experiences. I'll keep you updated on my situation.Wow, amazing the things that can be related to RA and other autoimmune problems. I've had urinary tract problems for ages, gotten worse lately. Never thought it could all be part of RA. Amazing. So glad you brought it up!
So, my UTI may be a RA thing and not because I am on hormone replacement therapy? I hate the UTIs with a passion. And yes I have to go tinkle at least once a night.