Bladder instillation is a drug therapy to help painful bladder or cystitis type symptoms including frequency, urgency, burning pain or stinging sensations when passing urine. It works by reducing inflammation and discomfort within the bladder.
How Is a Bladder Instillation Done?
When a bladder installation treatment is done, the DMSO solution is pre-measured. A catheter is inserted into the tube that leads to the bladder from the outside of the body (the urethra). The solution is usually left in place for about 15 minutes before being released in the reverse direction through the catheter. As for frequency, treatments are typically given every few weeks.
What Happens After Treatments While each patient responds differently to bladder instillations, improvements are often seen within three to four weeks after treatment begins. Treatments performed as outpatient in-office procedures are usually done in cycles lasting six to eight weeks. If the bladder baths are helping to relieve symptoms, the cycle may be repeated. IC sufferers may notice more consistent relief if bladder instillations are combined with lifestyle adjustments. With diet, this means avoiding excessively spicy and acidic foods that tend to irritate the bladder. Since IC may also be aggravated by physical and mental stress, relaxation techniques and gentle exercises like yoga may be beneficial.
