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[aidansrest]

Hi All

Just some advice needed on how to handle a flare up.

My primary symptom is bladder issues - sore, heavy feeling, constantly feeling as though my bladder is not empty, soreness and dryness around the urethra.
99% of the time I manage it well, using ovestin cream externally and vagifem five nights a week. I wash with Hydromol and apply epaderm cream when I've washed. Most of the time I feel 100% normal, don't give it a second thought!
I can't use systematic HRT due to fibroids and this was on the advice of a menopause specialist clinic. But, apart from night sweats, which I can handle, as long as the topical HRT keeps on top of things I'm fine.

I've had two really bad flare ups - the last one involved a UTI and the antibiotics prescribed then left me with thrush which took months to shift. I ended up on antidepressants I was so stressed.

Anyway, a few days ago, out of the blue, I felt 'different', its hard to explain, but I'm so in tune with my body (bladder), I just know if something doesn't feel right.
Started to feel really dry and my bladder feels full and irritated. Its so demoralising. I'm trying to stay calm, as previously my anxiety levels were through the roof and I know that doesn't help, so what can I do to get back on track?

Is it back to using vagifem and ovestin every night until it calms down? is it just trying to stay calm and not think about it 24/7 (which Iam).

Any advice on how to get through a flare and stay sane!!

Thanks Sue

[Pixie]

Yes you can repeat the loading dose during a flare. Some use it more than twice a week full time.

I also found a natural spray called Salcura Topida works wonders for me for the sore urethra uti type symptoms that aren't a uti. I mix a spray or two with a drop of yes lubricant once or twice a day. It can feel a little burny for a minute or two especially to start with but then sweet relief. About the only thing that's worked for me.

[aidansrest]

Thank you - thats worth a try!!

I think I just needed reassuring that I can up the dosage of HRT safely

Sue

[CLKD]

Many ladies require vaginal atrophy every night for years.  When I feel niggles in my lower belly I swallow two Nurofen and insert 'ovestin' mid afternoon and again in the evenings [3-5] to knock symptoms on the head. 

[Patsie]

I had a flare up end of January and had to go back to the beginning again with the 2 week reload together with  cream externally.  I am still not feeling right so am currently on my 3 day system which is one day pessary, next day cream externally and then the next day moisturiser (I use olive and bee).  Hopefully in the next couple of months it will improve more and more.  I have found on this journey that flare ups will happen and there is no quick fix. 

I know it’s hard but you have to keep persevering with whatever helps you to get comfortable again even if it takes several weeks or months but hopefully you will get there.

[CLKD]

Patsie - do try the pessary for at least 5 nights to ease symptoms.  Which are you using, we cannot over dose on VA treatments despite some medics being worried!


Doing a reload of the treatment into the vagina should work within the 2-3 weeks as the vaginal walls plump up and become less dry and itchy.