Understanding Overactive Bladder
Overactive bladder (OAB) is a condition that often affects individuals over the age of 60. Living with this condition can be incredibly difficult because it can prevent patients from living a fulfilling lifestyle. This condition is characterized by a sudden and frequent urge to urinate, often resulting in involuntary leaking. Often, this results in frustration, embarrassment, and decreased participation in daily activities.
As soon as patients recognize these symptoms, they should contact their primary care physician to learn about the next steps. Oftentimes, this involves scheduling an appointment with a urologist. During this initial appointment, the doctor will work with the patient to understand what might’ve led to the development of this condition. Although causes of this condition vary drastically, common causes include:
- Nerve damage
- Certain medications
- Hormonal changes during menopause, pregnancy, or cognitive decline
Common Overactive Bladder Symptoms
Common overactive bladder symptoms include frequent urination, urgency to urinate, and nocturia (waking up multiple times during the night to urinate). Individuals with overactive bladder may experience a sudden and intense urge to urinate that is difficult to control, resulting in accidents or leakage. These symptoms can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, causing embarrassment, social isolation, and disruption of daily activities.
Managing Overactive Bladder Symptoms
Managing overactive bladder symptoms is a necessary step for patients seeking relief. If you have recently been diagnosed with an overactive bladder, continue reading to learn more about different ways to manage this condition.
- Avoid Certain Beverages. Certain beverages such as coffee, tea, and carbonated drinks can exacerbate symptoms of overactive bladder due to their diuretic properties and potential irritants to the bladder lining. Caffeinated beverages like coffee and tea can stimulate the bladder muscles, leading to more frequent urination and urgency.
- Perform Pelvic Floor Exercises. Pelvic floor exercises, also known as Kegel exercises, have been shown to be an effective way to manage symptoms of overactive bladder. By strengthening the muscles that support the pelvic organs, individuals can improve their bladder control and reduce the urgency and frequency of needing to urinate.
- Bladder Training. Bladder training is a commonly prescribed strategy for managing symptoms of overactive bladder (OAB). This technique involves scheduling regular bathroom breaks at set intervals throughout the day, gradually extending the time between voiding to help retrain the bladder to hold larger volumes of urine.
- Keep a Bladder Diary. A bladder diary is a useful tool for managing overactive bladder symptoms as it allows individuals to track their bathroom habits, such as frequency and urgency of urination, fluid intake, and any leakage episodes. By keeping a detailed record of these activities for a certain period of time, patients and healthcare providers can identify patterns and triggers that may exacerbate symptoms.
Treatment with BEST Health System
BEST Health System is dedicated to helping patients feel their best. We understand that overactive bladder syndrome is incredibly difficult to deal with. It may prevent you from spending quality time with your friends and family, or you might not be able to engage in your favorite activities.
You deserve to live a life where you feel comfortable. Connect with BEST Health System today to learn more about our sacral nerve stimulation trials.
