concerned for MIL

I was wondering why they don't do the cystoscopy first to see what it
is going on first in the bladder and then the CT Scan. Joe

Wow! The size of your fist? I just talked to my MIL and she has been bleeding again today. Not heavy though. And she has really had a hard time just getting up and going, no energy at all. Thank you all for the replies. It really helps when you have someone, who is or has gone through the same thing, to talk with. I am not the one having the problems, but someone I care deeply about does. Thanks!

Sandra....at least half of the people on this forum have never smoked....honestly they link cigarette smoke with all cancers. I wouldn't even look for blame because they honestly don't know....
Most tests including CT scans done at hospitals are read pretty quickly...if you want to get them yourself unless S. Carolina has a stupid law like Fla you just have to go into the medical records dept. and sign your life away and get your copies of the reports. With the new HIPPA laws we have to jump through hoops to get our own information...amazing huh?
Your mother in law is lucky that she's passing the clots...i actually had one episode where i could not go to the bathroom due to a huge clot blocking passage..i was told to go to the E.R. For some reason i ran an extremely hot bath and got in...that did something and i then passed the clot on my own..honestly it was the size of my fist. Once i passed that one i never had any visible blood again even after my cystoscopies and TURBs.
Pat

I listened to the message the doctor had on the link. He says a smoker is at risk for developing bladder cancer. She has never smoked a cigarette in her life, but her dad smoked when she was small and her husband smoked around her for a long time. She hasn't been exposed to secondhand smoke in years though. I wonder if secondhand smoke could cause BC. Yes, she was passing clots a few weeks ago. She said it was like having a period. So, I am very concerned. We are dumbfounded of why it is taking so long with the tests. At least she will have her CT scan on Tuesday.

I agree with you. It is so ridiculous. I will check out the link that you gave me. Thank you so much!

I'm at a loss why the first uro she went to see did not do a cystoscopy instead of extensive blood work..anyone could have done that. ??? There is not a comprehensive cancer center in the state of S. Carolina however i did find one urologist who has a high ranking
hcc.musc.edu/findadoc/index.htm?Action=DoctorInfo&Doctor_ID=2029
Theres lots of places in N. Carolina.
I think first off you need a diagnosis and you need it NOW...and all this waiting is ridiculous. Your mother in law should not be ignored as she is passing blood clots.
Pat