Posted by John on 17/7/2009, 6:33 pm

I have had paruresis for about 25 years, I first noticed it when I used to drink a lot but as I got older and grew out of the habit of drinking I found the problem peeing becoming worse. I mentioned it to a GP about 20 years ago and he very dismissive and that put me off getting any medical advice again. I have since seen another GP 2 years ago and had a course of cognitive therapy and it seemed to work for a while, well I felt less anxious about it...not cured, now though it seems as bad as its ever been I am back to watching the toilet at work so I am confident that I will be alone, but going out to the pub is difficult. I went to cricket recently with some long standing friends and was determined to go when I wanted (the beer helped) I even went to the toilet with a friend and waited for the trap to become free, urinated in the trap and rejoined my friends, I was of the mindset to tell them if anyone asked, but no one did because NO ONE is interested its ONLY in our mind. I realise that but what can I do about it? On Wednesday I am seeing my GP who arranged the cognitive therapy and will ask her to refer me to a urologist to "check me out", sometimes at home when I am alone it can take a good few seconds before I start. I have discussed this fully with my wife and can urinate happily in front of her or my daughter, or father come to that, its just the irrational fear of I don't know what. What sort of "unirary problems" exist that can cause a problem peeing. I am going to a wedding tomorrow and will try the holding breathe method, it sounds as if it could work because its a switch in the brain which needs turning on at the right time. John

854