Mountaineer,
In answer to your last question - the return to normal following a BCG series of six - there is a wide variation in timing. some of the lucky guys seem to over and done as if nothing had happened.
Your experience sounds closer to us on the other end of the spectrum. For us, there is minimum rebound between BCG treatments; the blood has stopped, the burn remains, and we want to know where the nearest bathroom will be in the next 30 to 60 minutes. Depends or a store brand Adult Security product provides a sense of control during this period for us.
After the series of six, it can take a couple of week to a month or so for the burn to go away. Urgency can take long to resolve, much depends on how much (maximum comfortable) bladder capacity has been reduced during treatment. It takes me a month to get back to half prior bladder capacity, and 2 to 3 months to fully recover capacity. This can lead to frequent urgency, and the need to plan travel around the pit stops. The usefulness of Depends is greatly reduced during this time, as the volume has increased. An external catheter and leg bag are options if mobility is required and incontinence or timing are issues.
I assume you have been prescribed pyridium or told to use over the counter AZO - all the same urinary pain relief tablet, non-narcotic, just works on the urinary tract. It helps some.
Keep your care team involved with ANYTHING that is bothering you. There are lots that can be done, but only if they know you have an issue with side effects of treatment. Hopefully, your symptoms clear up quickly and all will be well. However, don't be discouraged if it take a while longer. Keep your eye on the prize - beating this cancer.
Best,
Jack
