A first-of-its-kind clinic has opened at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital in Liverpool to address a concerning rise in severe bladder problems among young people linked to ketamine leverage. Medics report some patients are resorting to using incontinence pads or even urinating in buckets beside their beds due to the effects of the drug.
A Growing Crisis
The clinic was established in response to an escalating number of referrals for what is known as ‘Ketamine Bladder’ – a condition where chronic ketamine use causes significant damage to the bladder wall, potentially leading to irreversible consequences. According to consultant paediatric urologist Harriet Corbett, “Some of our patients start wetting the bed or find going to the bathroom at night is actually too hard, so they’ll either choose incontinence products or a bucket by the bed.”
The damage caused by ketamine can lead to inflammation, a decrease in bladder size and a constant, urgent demand to urinate. In severe cases, bladder removal or kidney problems may become necessary. Corbett emphasized the urgency of intervention, stating, “We need to shout loudly about this due to the fact that if we can encourage them to stop using, that will potentially save themselves a miserable life of medical interventions. There is a point at which you can’t recover.”
Young Patients, Complex Issues
Most patients seen at the clinic are between 14 and 15 years old, with some reporting ketamine use as early as age 12. The reasons behind the surge in use are not fully understood, but clinicians suggest factors may include social pressures, a desire to cope with underlying mental health challenges, and the presence of neurodivergence, such as ADHD. Professor Rachel Isba, a consultant in paediatric public health medicine, noted, “What we hear from the kids is: ket is great, it’s a break from your busy brain or just a bit of a rest.”
A troubling cycle has as well emerged, with some young people turning to ketamine to self-medicate the pain caused by their existing bladder problems, leading to a “nasty downward spiral,” according to Corbett.
Looking Ahead
While a 2023 NHS England survey indicated that 0.9% of 15-year-olds had used ketamine, and 11% had been offered it, medical professionals suspect the actual numbers may be higher. Increased awareness and targeted interventions could help stem the rise in cases. Further research is needed to fully understand the scope of the problem and develop effective prevention strategies. The clinic’s multidisciplinary approach, combining medical treatment with addiction support, could serve as a model for other hospitals facing similar challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ‘Ketamine Bladder’?
‘Ketamine Bladder’ is a condition caused by chronic ketamine use, resulting in damage to the bladder wall, inflammation, and a decrease in bladder size.
What age group is most affected?
Most patients seen at the clinic are between 14 and 15 years old, though some have reported starting ketamine use as young as 12.
What are the potential long-term consequences of ketamine-induced bladder damage?
The damage can lead to chronic bladder pain, incontinence, and, in extreme cases, the need for bladder removal or kidney problems.
What more can be done to address this growing health concern among young people?
