Do catheters hurt? Here’s what you need to know about catheter use and how to reduce your risk of pain when using them.
Have you heard that catheters hurt? It’s a common belief and one of the reasons why people dread using a catheter.
While using a catheter can occasionally be uncomfortable, you can do many things to prevent it from being painful. It’s important to understand the facts about catheters and learn everything you can to make the process as painless as possible.
Inserting the Catheter
In many cases, the most intimidating and potentially painful part of catheter use is the initial insertion. Unfortunately, the thoughts that go through someone’s head about catheter use can make the experience more uncomfortable than it would be otherwise. Many people tense up at the idea of catheter insertion, making the process more difficult.
Catheters have come a long way over the years. A catheter is a thin tube inserted through the urethra and into the bladder. Some catheters are inserted into the bladder through the abdomen. People might need a catheter due to:
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Surgery
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Incontinence
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Other medical conditions that affect urination
Insertion of a catheter typically causes pressure around the urethra. It shouldn’t be painful. At most, you should feel a bit of discomfort when inserting the catheter if it’s done properly.
For many people, the sensation is similar to having to urinate without being able to do so. It should be a mild discomfort but can be severe if you’re sore from an infection or because insertion is done improperly. It’s also more painful when you are unable to relax. Deep breathing and other relaxation techniques can help you make the insertion process less painful.
Types of Catheters
There are two main types of catheters. They include the Foley catheter, which is an indwelling catheter with an inflatable balloon at its end, and the intermittent straight catheter, which is a rigid tube.
The insertion process for each type is about the same. Both can cause discomfort when first inserted. This is usually because of minor abrasions caused by contact between the catheter and urinary tract tissue.
Once the catheter is inserted beyond the initial stage, patients tend to relax, and the discomfort passes. This is especially true for those experiencing discomfort due to being unable to urinate.
What If I Feel Sharp Pain after Insertion?
In some cases, people using catheters might feel sharp pain. This is usually caused by a urinary tract infection. When you have an infection, everything is tender and more susceptible to pain. It’s also possible that kidney inflammation or kidney stones could trigger sharp pains with catheter use.
Tips for Avoiding Painful Catheter Insertion
Choose the Right Size
Catheters differ in size, and one of the best ways to avoid discomfort when inserting and using a catheter is to ensure you have the right size. Smaller gauge catheters are less painful and cause less skin irritation, but this doesn’t mean everyone should use the smallest catheter available. You can discuss catheter size with your healthcare professional to ensure you choose the smallest, most effective size for your needs.
Use Lubrication
Lubricating the opening into which you place the catheter prevents friction and makes the insertion process easier. Make sure you choose a safe substance that doesn’t damage the catheter when lubricating the area.
Master the Insertion Technique
Healthcare professionals should practice their technique for inserting a catheter to ensure they’re triggering as little discomfort as possible. If you’re inserting your catheter, practice and patience will help you avoid pain during the process.
Numbing Agents
It might be possible to use a numbing agent or a medication that eases the discomfort or pain of using a catheter. Numbing ointments like lidocaine gel provide temporary relief from pain.
Frequent Flushing
One of the best ways to prevent pain and reduce other risks associated with catheter use is to flush the catheter often enough. Flushing techniques use saline solution to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and reduce infection risk.
Prepare Before Insertion
It’s essential to have all of your supplies ready before you begin the catheter insertion process. This is true for healthcare professionals and people inserting their catheters at home. Gather lubricant, gloves, antiseptic solution, the catheter, and anything else you might need. If you’re a healthcare provider, explaining to the patient what you’re doing and what the process entails is also helpful.
Consider Distractions
If someone is particularly anxious about intermittent catheterization or inserting an indwelling urinary catheter, it can help to distract them from the situation. Deep breathing techniques, relaxing music, and meditation can all help get someone’s mind off the potential for pain during the process.
Over time, most people grow used to catheter placement if it’s something they have to do regularly. But those just starting to use catheters or needing one temporarily can benefit from distracting themselves during the process.
Proper Position
The position someone is in for intermittent catheterization or to insert an indwelling urinary catheter can play a major role in the discomfort, or lack of, during the procedure. Holding your legs apart and flexing at the hips makes it easier for a healthcare provider to position the catheter.
Relieving Pain from Catheterization
If you still experience pain or more than mild discomfort during catheter placement, there are a few things to consider. For example:
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Check the catheter size and choose a smaller size if possible
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Ensure that you aren’t suffering from an undiagnosed infection
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Consider kidney health
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Change lubrication
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Drink plenty of water while using catheters
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Speak to your medical care provider if you aren’t sure why you’re experiencing catheter pain
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