A cystoscopy is a medical procedure used to examine the lining of the bladder and the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body. A healthcare provider inserts a thin, flexible tube equipped with a light and camera, called a cystoscope, through the urethra and into the bladder. This allows for direct visualization of the urinary tract to diagnose or treat various conditions, such as hematuria or frequent urinary tract infections. Following necessary precautions and restrictions after the procedure helps ensure a smooth recovery and minimizes complications.
Key Activities to Avoid Immediately
If sedation or general anesthesia was used, the first 24 to 48 hours require strict activity limitations. You must not drive or operate heavy machinery for at least one full day, as anesthesia can impair judgment and reaction time. Additionally, avoid alcohol consumption for 24 hours, as it can interact negatively with residual anesthetic agents and pain medications.
Physical exertion is a major restriction that can increase the risk of post-procedure bleeding and internal pressure. Avoid all strenuous activities, such as jogging, aerobic exercise, and heavy lifting (over 10 pounds), typically for the first week. Resuming activity too soon can disrupt the healing process in the urethra or bladder lining.
To reduce the risk of infection and irritation, sexual activity should be avoided until the initial recovery symptoms have resolved. Wait until there is no longer any blood in the urine or discomfort upon urination, which often takes several days. While showering is safe and encouraged, avoid soaking in baths, hot tubs, or swimming pools for a few days, as submerging the lower body can introduce bacteria into the urethra.
Expected Recovery Symptoms and Management
Following a cystoscopy, patients commonly experience temporary and normal symptoms as the urethra and bladder recover. One of the most frequently reported symptoms is dysuria, characterized by a mild burning or stinging sensation during urination. This irritation should progressively improve within one to two days after the procedure. It is also common to experience a temporary increase in urinary frequency or a persistent urge to urinate, resulting from the bladder being manipulated.
The presence of blood in the urine, known as hematuria, is also expected, especially within the first 24 to 48 hours. This typically manifests as a pink or light red tinge as the body flushes out residual blood. To manage this and help prevent infection, significantly increase your fluid intake by drinking at least eight eight-ounce glasses of water daily. Increased hydration helps dilute the urine, reducing irritation and promoting faster clearing of mild bleeding.
For managing discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers containing acetaminophen are usually recommended. However, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or aspirin, should be avoided unless specifically approved by your healthcare provider. NSAIDs can interfere with the body’s clotting mechanism, potentially increasing the risk or duration of post-procedural bleeding. If pain persists or worsens despite using the recommended medication, seek further medical evaluation.
Recognizing Serious Complications
It is important to monitor for specific signs that may indicate a serious complication, such as infection or severe bleeding. A primary warning sign is the development of a high fever, defined as 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) or higher. Fever, especially when accompanied by chills or shaking, indicates a potential urinary tract infection that requires immediate antibiotic treatment.
Another serious symptom is the inability to urinate, known as acute urinary retention, caused by swelling in the urethra or prostate. If you feel a painfully full bladder but cannot pass urine, seek urgent medical attention. While minor blood in the urine is expected, heavy or persistent bleeding is not normal. This includes passing large blood clots or having urine that remains bright red and opaque after the initial 24 hours.
Worsening pain that is not relieved by medication is also a cause for concern. This includes severe abdominal pain or pain localized to the lower back or flank area, which could suggest a kidney or upper urinary tract problem. Unrelenting pain, significant bleeding, inability to urinate, or fever should prompt immediate contact with your healthcare provider or an emergency department.