Overactive Bladder
Does nature keep calling and calling and calling?
If excessive trips to the bathroom interfere with your work, social life or sleep, you may have overactive bladder (OAB). OAB is not a normal part of aging. It’s not a trait of being a woman. It’s not caused by something you did. And it’s not an issue with the prostate. As many as 30% of men and 40% of women live with OAB symptoms. Without treatment, OAB may limit you and keep you chained to a restroom. A non-surgical or surgical option can help you get your life back.
What are the symptoms?
- Experiencing a sudden, strong urge to urinate
- Leaking urine
- Urinating frequently
What causes OAB?
Improper nerve signaling between your bladder and brain can cause OAB. You may feel the need to urinate even when your bladder isn’t full. OAB can also occur when the bladder muscles are overly active, leading to a strong urge to go. Other causes can be urinary tract infection, medication side effects or a brain or spinal cord disease.
How is it diagnosed?
Your primary care provider may refer you to a urology specialist for evaluation. During your visit, the urologist will review your health history and symptoms. You may also be asked to keep a bladder diary, tracking how much you drink, how often you urinate, when you feel strong urges to go, and any leakage you experience.
How is it treated?
Treatment is different for each patient, but some options can include:
- Lifestyle changes, such as avoiding caffeine, alcohol, soda, etc.
- Double or delayed voiding
- Timed urination
- Bladder exercises
- Medications
- Surgical procedures