Conditions
OVERACTIVE BLADDER SYNDROME
Overactive bladder syndrome is a term for urinary conditions that are categorised by a sudden, uncontrolled urge to urinate more often than is normal. This urge may be difficult to stop and often leads to the involuntary loss or leaking of urine (urge incontinence). This condition can be caused by involuntary bladder contractions, which may be aggravated by neurological disorders, diabetes and declining cognitive function or by obstructions in the bladder's outflow, acute urinary tract infections and abnormalities of the urinary tract.
An overactive bladder can affect your everyday life, disrupting work, sleep and daily activities, causing emotional distress, sleep disturbances and issues with sexuality. While many may believe an overactive bladder is a normal part of ageing, it is not, and there are treatments to help people manage the symptoms of overactive bladder syndrome.
Simple behavioural measures, such as dietary adjustments, timed voiding, and bladder-holding techniques employing your pelvic floor muscles, may help you manage the symptoms of an overactive bladder. Additional therapies are available if these initial efforts aren't enough to relieve your overactive bladder problems. Overactive bladder isn't a typical component of ageing, even if it's frequent among the elderly. It may be difficult to talk about your symptoms, but if they bother you or interfere with your life, speak with Dr Ridgard. There are treatments available that may be of assistance to you.
Overactive bladder syndrome is categorised by symptoms of:
- An urgent need to urinate
- Urinating more than eight times in 24 hours
- Waking up two or more times during the night to urinate
- The involuntary loss of urine immediately following an urgent need to urinate
What are the treatments for overactive bladder syndrome?
While many may not seek treatment, treatment of an overactive bladder can be simple. After a brief evaluation of your symptoms, Dr Ridgard may diagnose you with an overactive bladder and assist you in managing the symptoms with behavioural strategies. Fluid schedules timed voiding and strengthening the pelvic floor muscles can benefit, but treatment may also include medications.
FAQ
OAB is usually a chronic illness that improves over time but never completely disappears.
The appropriate duration of OAB pharmacotherapy and the maintenance of efficacy has yet to be determined. It is suggested that OAB patients be treated for 6–12 months and that drug adherence is promoted.
When you drink too little, your urine concentrates, irritating your bladder and causing urinary urgency. However, to avoid dehydration, it's critical to keep your fluid intake up. To stay hydrated, drink slowly and frequently throughout the day.