Lower urinary tract problems

What are urinary tract problems?

The urinary tract is located in the lower abdomen and consists of the bladder and the urethra. A sphincter ensures that urine does not simply leak out of the bladder. Urine is produced in the kidneys and stored in the bladder. When the bladder is full, the brain sends a signal and you feel the need to urinate. The sphincter relaxes and the urine exits through the urethra.

Sometimes urinary tract problems occur, such as:

• Bladder bleeding

• Scar tissue in the bladder

• Difficulty urinating because the sphincter does not relax properly

• Backflow of urine to the kidneys

• Nerve damage causing urine to leak from the bladder

• Blocked ureter between kidneys and bladder

You can do a number of things to prevent urinary tract problems, such as drinking enough fluids.

Do I have an increased risk of urinary tract problems?

Everyone, including people who have not had cancer, can develop urinary tract problems, but some cancer treatments can increase the risk.

The following treatments can increase the risk of urinary tract problems:

• Any dose of cyclophosphamide and ifosfamide

• Radiotherapy to the bladder or to an area where the bladder is located

• Surgery in which the bladder was removed

• Surgery in which the uterus was removed

• Surgery on the pelvis

• Surgery on the spine

You can see in your treatment summary whether you have received one or more of these treatments. If you do not have a summary, you can contact the LATER clinic or the hospital where you were treated. Urinary tract problems do not always have to be caused by treatment. There may also be other causes.

What are the symptoms and signs of urinary tract problems?

Certain symptoms and signs may indicate urinary tract problems. Even if you do not have these symptoms and signs at the moment, it is important to recognize them in case you ever develop them.

The following symptoms and signs may indicate urinary tract problems:

• Difficulty urinating

• Pain or burning sensation when urinating

• Urine loss

• Urinating more frequently than normal

• Blood in the urine

If you recognize any of these symptoms or signs, contact your general practitioner or LATER physician. Usually there is a different cause, such as a urinary tract infection.

I have an increased risk of urinary tract problems. What tests are necessary and when?

If you have an increased risk of urinary tract problems, the recommendation is:

• Make an appointment with your general practitioner or LATER physician for a check-up at least every 5 years

• If your bladder has been removed or enlarged with a piece of intestine, remain under the supervision of your nephrologist (kidney specialist) or urologist (urinary tract specialist)

If there are indications that you have urinary tract problems, your urine will be tested.

What happens if I have urinary tract problems?

If you have urinary tract problems, your general practitioner or LATER physician will refer you if necessary to a:

• Urologist (physician specialized in the urinary tract)

They will discuss the various treatment options with you.

What else can I do?

Living with an increased risk of urinary tract problems can be difficult. Talking with friends and family can help. Contact with people in a similar situation can also be helpful, for example through a patient association such as VOX, part of the Dutch Childhood Cancer Association.

Above all, take good care of yourself. You can reduce the risk of urinary tract problems with a healthy lifestyle. It is especially important to drink enough fluids. This means drinking more in hot weather and during physical activities. Also take care of your mental health. Small changes can already have a positive impact on your physical and mental wellbeing.

It is important that you know you have an increased risk of urinary tract problems and that you recognize the symptoms and signs. If you have questions or are concerned after reading this information, contact your general practitioner or LATER physician.

Where can I find more information?

This LATER website also contains information about:

• Healthy lifestyle

• Mental health

• Kidney problems

• Second form of cancer: bladder cancer

In the PanCare Plain Language Summaries you will find links to reliable information in English. You can search for information about urinary tract problems online, but keep in mind that it is not always up-to-date and accurate.

Disclaimer

This information is based on the plain language summary of the guideline below, created by the PanCare Plain Information Group, and has been adapted to the Dutch LATER guideline where necessary. If you experience symptoms and signs, do not rely solely on this information, but consult your general practitioner, LATER physician, or specialist.

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