How do Tarlov cysts affect bowel and bladder?
The effects of the cysts on bladder and bowel function are variable and there may be no changes in bowel or bladder habits. Dependent on the location and size of your cysts and whether they are pressing on nerve roots that are important for bowel and bladder function, you may not notice any problems. Some patients have experienced the inability to urinate or to empty the bladder completely. Due to these problems some have experienced an increase in urinary tract infections (UTI) or cystitis. If you are taking narcotics, constipation can become a problem and may require the use of stool softeners, increasing bulk in the diet, and increase in water intake. It is always important to communicate with your physician to let them know if you are experiencing changes in bowel or bladder function. Urodynamics testing might be ordered to determine how well your bladder is functioning.
