What is an Overactive Bladder?
Overactive Bladder (or OAB) is a condition that causes a sudden and uncontrollable urge to urinate, often accompanied by frequent urination and sometimes involuntary leakage of urine. This condition can have a significant impact on your quality of life, affecting everything from personal confidence to social interactions and overall well-being. Getting medical help sooner rather than later is critical for managing your symptoms and getting your life back.
What causes an Overactive Bladder?
It’s difficult to identify the exact cause of Overactive Bladder (OAB) since it can be caused by a combination of various factors. But there are several things that may contribute to the development of OAB, including:
- Age-Related Changes: As people age, the bladder’s ability to control and store urine may decline. This can lead to increased urgency, frequency, and incontinence.
- Neurological Disorders: Conditions such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease, or multiple sclerosis can wreak havoc on the nerve signals that control how the bladder works, leading to symptoms of OAB.
- Bladder Infections or Inflammation: Infections such as a urinary tract infection or chronic inflammation of the bladder can irritate the lining of the bladder, causing it to become overactive with symptoms of frequent and urgent urination.
- Medications and Medical Conditions: Certain medications, especially diuretics and those that affect bladder function, can contribute to OAB symptoms. Additionally, underlying medical conditions such as diabetes or interstitial cystitis can make bladder issues worsen.
Understanding these contributing factors is crucial for accurately diagnosing and effectively managing overactive bladder.
What Are The Symptoms Of An Overactive Bladder
When it comes to overactive bladder there can be a variety of symptoms including:
- Frequent need to urinate
- Urgent need to urinate that is difficult to delay
- Involuntary leakage of urine (urge incontinence)
- Waking up multiple times during the night to go to the bathroom
Incontinence Centers of America recommends seeing a doctor as soon as you notice a change in your urination, because the longer you hold off on receiving medical help, the worse the overactive bladder can get. Not only this, but OAB does not go away on its own and does require care.
What Treatment Options Are Available For Overactive Bladder
At Incontinence Centers of America, we offer several treatments to help with overactive bladder. One of our newest options is Axonics Therapy, which works by targeting the nerves and muscles that control the bladder. This therapy has shown great success in improving bladder function, helping patients feel more confident and independent.
We also provide more traditional treatments, such as behavioral therapy and medications. Our team will work closely with you to create a treatment plan that’s just right for your needs and goals.
