Full Answer
Why do I have to wait 2 hours after BCG treatment?
I was told after each visit to go home after treatment to relax and not to pass urine for two hours after. This helps to increase the concentration and of effects of BCG in your bladder.
How long do the side effects of a BCG last?
The side effects have lasted some 5 weeks & include the darn nuisance of BCG induced cystitis symptoms so not keen on going to the loo!
Should I talk to my doctor about my experience with BCG?
While BCG is a fairly common treatment for bladder cancer, every person has different experiences. It's important to talk to your doctor about any questions or concerns you may have at any point during your treatment.
Can bladder cancer come back after BCG treatment?
60% of patients do not have their bladder cancer come back after BCG treatment, but 40% of the time cancer comes back within two years. First, make sure you haven’t had any fluids for four hours before the treatment.
How long are you contagious after BCG treatment?
Reproductive Concerns. Men having this treatment can pass on BCG during sex. To protect your partner from coming into contact with BCG, you should not have sex for 48 hours after each treatment. Use a condom if you have sex at other times during the treatment course and for six weeks after treatment has ended.
What happens after your first BCG treatment?
Treatment with BCG can cause a wide range of symptoms. It's common to have flu-like symptoms, such as fever, achiness, chills, and fatigue. These can last for 2 to 3 days after treatment. It also commonly causes a burning feeling in the bladder, the need to urinate often, and even blood in the urine.
Can I drive home after BCG treatment?
How long will the treatment take? You will need to keep the BCG in the bladder for two hours. After this time you will be able to go home. You should feel well enough to drive yourself home after the treatment, but on the first occasion you may want to ask for a friend or relative to collect you, just in case.
What should I do after BCG?
After treatmentsit down to pass urine – this avoids splashing urine on the toilet seat.wash the skin in and around your genital area with soap and water after you pass urine – this cleans any drops of BCG that may have splashed on to your skin.More items...
Is BCG considered chemo?
Is BCG treatment a form of chemotherapy? No. Although intravesical immunotherapy and intravesical chemotherapy are given the same way, these two treatments use different types of drugs. While chemotherapy drugs attack cancer cells directly, immunotherapy drugs harness the power of your immune system.
Why do you have to bleach toilet after BCG treatment?
Because BCG is a live vaccine, there are some important safety measures to keep in mind that your doctor can explain. BCG can remain in urine for 6 hours after your treatment, so each time you urinate, you should bleach the toilet in your home to neutralize the vaccine.
Do BCG side effects get worse with each treatment?
The irritative reactions usually are seen following the third instillation and tend to increase in severity after each administration. There is no evidence that dose reduction or antituberculous drug therapy can prevent or lessen the irritative symptoms of TheraCys.
Should you drink lots of water after BCG treatment?
You may also experience a small amount of bleeding and discomfort when passing urine, particularly in the first 24 to 48 hours after treatment. Drinking plenty of clear fluids will help. Avoid tea and coffee as caffeine tends to make the bladder irritability worse.
How much water should you drink after a BCG treatment?
Once the two hours has passed, go to the toilet and empty your bladder. You can now start drinking plenty of fluids (2-3litres) for the first 24 hours following treatment.
How do you clean a toilet after BCG?
For the first six hours after each treatment, pour 250 ml (1 cup) of bleach into the toilet after every void. Let the bleach sit in the toilet for 15 minutes to neutralize the BCG before flushing. Your washroom should be well ventilated since the mixture of urine and bleach can sometimes give off strong fumes.
How long after a BCG do you get a cystoscopy?
Abstract. The standard of practice set by the SWOG investigation of BCG therapy for superficial bladder cancer has been to evaluate response at 3 months with cystoscopy and bladder biopsy.
Is BCG better than chemo?
BCG is most commonly used in intravesical immunotherapy for NMIBC and appears to be more effective than intravesical chemotherapy in preventing tumor recurrence and progression. Especially for those with high-risk NMIBC, BCG immunotherapy is considered as a gold-standard treatment (29).
How long does it take to get a BCG removed?
1,2 It is generally not considered a painful procedure, though some may find it uncomfortable. Any urine remaining in the bladder will be drained and then a BCG solution will be inserted into the bladder next to the tumor and should remain for two hours. The catheter is normally removed after the BCG is placed into the bladder, and patients can get up and walk around during the waiting time. If the catheter is not removed for some reason, it is clamped to keep the BCG in the bladder. Patients are asked not to urinate for the two hours waiting time. Most people can travel independently to the doctor for the procedure, but it may be helpful to have another person accompany you to help pass the time.
How long does a BCG stay in the bladder?
Any urine remaining in the bladder will be drained and then a BCG solution will be inserted into the bladder next to the tumor and should remain for two hours. The catheter is normally removed after the BCG is placed into the bladder, and patients can get up and walk around during the waiting time.
Why is it important to talk to your doctor about your treatment?
It's important to talk to your doctor about any questions or concerns you may have at any point during your treatment. Being mentally prepared for what to expect can help to reduce stress or uncertainty about treatment or help you think of additional questions for your healthcare team.
Can you drink fluids after a BCG?
After the BCG is drained from the bladder, patients can resume drinking fluids normally. Because BCG is a live vaccine, there are some important safety measures to keep in mind that your doctor can explain.
Can you urinate after a BCG catheter is removed?
If the catheter is not removed for some reason, it is clamped to keep the BCG in the bladder. Patients are asked not to urinate for the two hours waiting time. Most people can travel independently to the doctor for the procedure, but it may be helpful to have another person accompany you to help pass the time.
How long do you have to hold your urine for BCG?
During the treatment, a person will need to hold their urine for around 2 hours. After this, the healthcare professional will ask the individual to empty their bladder. The BCG drug contains live bacteria that a person can pass to other people.
How long can you live with stage 1 bladder cancer?
as likely as people without it to live for at least 5 years following diagnosis. Doctors typically use BCG immunotherapy to treat stage 0 and stage 1 bladder cancer. The 5-year relative survival rate for people with stage 0 bladder cancer is 95.4 percent. Trusted Source.
What is the treatment for bladder cancer?
Bacillus Calmette–Guerin is a form of immunotherapy that doctors can use to treat some forms of bladder cancer. Following surgery to remove the cancer, this treatment can help prevent the cancer from returning.
How long do you have to hold your urine before you empty your bladder?
A person will then need to hold their urine for 2 hours before emptying their bladder. BCG is a type of bacterium. For several hours following the procedure, a person will need to take precautions when urinating to prevent passing the bacterium to other people.
How to keep liquid in bladder?
The healthcare professional will then either cap or remove the catheter to keep the liquid inside the bladder for a period of time. They may then ask the person to lay on their back and rotate from side to side. This movement helps the liquid reach all parts of the bladder.
Can you drink caffeine after BCG?
They may ask the individual not to drink fluids for several hours before the procedure. They might also recommend that the person avoids consuming caffeine immediately after having BCG immunotherapy .
How long after BCG treatment can you have sex?
Men can pass BCG to their partner during sex. For that reason, you should avoid sex for 48 hours after each treatment. Use a condom between treatments and for six weeks following your final treatment. Women should avoid getting pregnant or breastfeeding while on BCG therapy.
What to do before BCG?
Tell your doctor about all the medications you take. Certain immunosuppressants, antimicrobial therapies, and radiation therapies can interfere with BCG treatment. You’ll be advised to limit your fluid intake for four hours prior to ...
How does a BCG catheter work?
A urinary catheter is inserted through your urethra and into your bladder. Then the BCG solution is injected into the catheter. The catheter is clamped off so the solution stays in your bladder. Some doctors may remove the catheter at this time. You have to hold the medicine in your bladder.
How long does it take for a bladder catheter to unclamp?
You’ll be instructed to lie on your back and to roll from side to side to make sure the solution reaches your entire bladder. After about two hours, the catheter is unclamped so the fluid can be drained. If the catheter was already removed, you’ll be asked to empty your bladder at this time.
What is the procedure called to remove bladder cancer?
It usually follows a procedure called transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT). It’s intended to help prevent recurrence. This treatment only affects cells inside the bladder. It’s not useful for later stage bladder cancer that has spread into or beyond the bladder lining, or to other tissues and organs.
How to get rid of BCG in men?
Disinfect the urine by adding 2 cups of bleach into the toilet. Let it stand for about 20 minutes before flushing. You should also wash your genital area very carefully after you urinate, so your skin doesn’t become irritated from the BCG. Wash your hands thoroughly, too. Men can pass BCG to their partner during sex.
Can you have more than one cancer treatment?
how well you tolerate certain treatments. Cancer treatment usually involves more than one type of therapy, which can be given at the same time or one at a time. That makes it difficult to compare one treatment to another.
The Early-Stage Bladder Cancer Treatment
Jennifer Welsh is a Connecticut-based science writer and editor with over ten years of experience under her belt. She’s previously worked and written for WIRED Science, The Scientist, Discover Magazine, LiveScience, and Business Insider.
Who Can Use BCG?
BCG is a treatment for early-stage bladder cancer that has not yet invaded the muscle of the bladder wall. Called non-muscle invasive bladder cancers (NMIBCs) or in situ bladder cancers, these account for about half of all bladder cancers. 3
What to Expect During BCG Treatment
First, make sure you haven’t had any fluids for four hours before the treatment. Right before you go into the treatment room your doctor or nurse will have you empty your bladder. 2
How to Prepare
To prepare for the BCG treatment, your doctor will likely have you undergo surgery to remove any visible cancer in the bladder. The surgery is called transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) and is usually done about two weeks before BCG therapy.
When to See a Doctor
There are a few side effects that can be especially dangerous, so make sure to talk to your doctor if you notice that you: 2
Other Treatments for Bladder Cancer
For many early-stage bladder cancers, BCG is the best option for treatment. Other treatments for bladder cancer include:
Summary
BCG treatment is a form of immunotherapy for non-muscle invasive bladder cancer. It is administered into the bladder through a catheter. It then activates the body's immune system to attack the cancer cells.
Doing my research about BCG
This treatment along with other alternatives was explained to me by my urologist after two operations to remove tumors from the bladder. My medical team was confident that my cancer was contained within the bladder lining. So as a result of this feedback and doing my research on the effects of BCG I opted for this course of treatment.
I felt great after the first 4 treatments
At best after each treatment of BCG I felt a bit wobbly and maybe even a bit tired. I could never be sure however if this was in my mind or a reality. When you have cancer and a professional tells you that you may feel tired after treatment, you feel tired even if you're not.
Side effects after my 4th treatment
Two days before my fifth session of BCG I was working out at the gym and found after 45 minutes that my body temperature was struggling to warm up. The tips of my fingers were also losing circulation, so I decided to cut my session short and go home. What was to follow after walking through my front door was 48 hours of unbelievable pain.
Severe pain and a loss of appetite
My entire body literally shut down on me. I had major fever type symptoms, excruciating pain in all joints and a severe headache. I was unable to eat and just about managed to take on fluids over the two days.
I learned to take it easy during treatment
I've since finished my BCG treatment and I'm now awaiting a biopsy to establish how successful my treatment was. My hope is that I’m given the all clear and allowed to move on with my life with just the little inconvenience of having to get myself checked every three months.
Who is the BCG contact number?
For further information about BCG, please review Merck's frequently asked questions or feel free to reach out to their National Service Center at 1-800-444-2080.
What is BCG in Urology?
Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) is a standard treatment option for non-muscle invasive bladder cancer. Merck & Co., the only maker and supplier of BCG to the United States, has informed the Urology Care Foundation that they are now experiencing a global shortage of BCG due the growing use and need for this product around the world.
How to treat bladder cancer?
The BCG drug is inserted into the bladder through a catheter. The therapy triggers the immune system to attack bladder cancer cells. It is one of the most effective treatments for bladder cancer, especially carcinoma in situ (CIS). It is not recommended if you have a weak immune system or certain symptoms. Side effects can include: 1 Urinating often 2 Pain when urinating 3 Flu-like symptoms 4 Joint pain 5 Fever or chills 6 Bacteria infecting whole body (less common)
How long does it take for a drug to pass out?
You will hold the drug in your bladder for one to two hours and then pass it out. Intravesical chemotherapy is usually given ...
What does a urologist tell you about cancer?
Your options for treatment will depend on how much your cancer has grown. Your urologist will stage and grade your cancer and assess the best way to manage your care considering your risk. Treatment also depends on your general health and age.
Is it important to educate people about bladder cancer?
Education and raising awareness about bladder cancer is an important part of moving closer to a cure. If you or a loved one is diagnosed with bladder cancer it can be frightening. However, your doctor and medical team are there to help you. Talk with your healthcare team about all the available forms of treatment.
Can bladder cancer be treated with CIS?
The therapy triggers the immune system to attack bladder cancer cells. It is one of the most effective treatments for bladder cancer, especially carcinoma in situ (CIS). It is not recommended if you have a weak immune system or certain symptoms. Side effects can include:
aftereffects of BCG bladder treatment
Just trying to see if anyone else has had the same experience. Recently finished my second 'maintenance' treatment after being passed 'clear' following the main 6 treatments. So really good news but the aftereffects (if thats what they are?) seem to be lasting much longer than previously.
aftereffects of BCG bladder treatment
hello Dave, so you have , completed 9 BCG treatments, yes i would agree , the side effects do increase, i have just completed my twelvth . I found that the first 6 were ok ish but ,were feeling just a little more aggresive by number 6.
aftereffects of BCG bladder treatment
Hi James Thanks for that. l am beginning to realise that l may be getting off quite lightly having spoken to my BCG team. Things have improved a bit and l am hoping that l may have only one more maintenance treatment to come. You are absolutely correct about diet and keeping reasonably fit it really does help.
aftereffects of BCG bladder treatment
I have just seen this as had not visited Cancer Research previously & found the comments & experiences of great interest.
aftereffects of BCG bladder treatment
Hi. My first post. I have just had my cystoscopy following my 12th BCG treatment. I agree with others that the first 6 are a breeze, the second 3 more painfull, and the last 3 very painfull and drawn out. I asked for an extra weeks break between 11 and 12 to recover.
aftereffects of BCG bladder treatment
Hello dickie - I just had my 10th dose of BCG 4 days ago & no problems so far re. side effects. That is quite a relief after the last time, but as I have 2 more doses to go I will wait & see with fingers crossed. Apparently, according to my consultant & keyworker these effects vary greatly from person to person & also in severity.
aftereffects of BCG bladder treatment
Nice to hear you guys are going strong , I have not posted for a while.