What Are the Treatments for Polyp in the Bladder & Frequent Urination?

Bladder polyps are growths on the walls of the bladder. They can be cancerous but are frequently benign. In many cases, there are no symptoms because the polyps are small. At times, they can cause blood in the urine and painful or frequent urination. Treatment depends on the type of polyps and the problems associated with them.

Risk Factors and Symptoms

• Causes are unknown, but some risk factors might include smoking, exposure to industrial chemicals and family history. They have been linked to a parasitic infection (schistosomiasis) common in developing countries.

Bladder Retraining

• Bladder retraining is the process of increasing intervals between bathroom use over 12 weeks, starting with a manageable time, such as every 30 minutes. It's important, when using this method, to be methodical about the times you urinate. For instance, make it a point to go at the top of the hour, whether you feel the need or not, then graduate to every hour and a half, progressively adding time. This will allow you to manage the voiding reflex and increase the volume you can tolerate.

Diet Modification

• Avoiding certain foods can aid in treating frequent urination. Caffeine, carbonated drinks, tomato-based products, chocolate, and spicy foods can irritate the bladder lining.

Fluid Intake

• Monitoring your fluid intake is essential in treatment. Drink enough to prevent constipation, but avoid fluids before bed to prevent nighttime urination.

Surgical Options

• In cases where the polyps are determined to be cancerous or the pain and bleeding must be stopped, surgical options are available. One type of surgery to remove polyps is called transurethral resection. The use of a cystoscope allows the surgeon to enter the bladder and biopsy or remove polyps. If malignant, radiation and chemotherapy might be required.