How the Brain Controls the Bladder
Our brain and the function of our bladder are directly related. A network of nerves, the central and peripheral nervous system, coordinates bladder function. If you have recently experienced incontinence issues, or if you have been diagnosed with an incontinence-related condition, you may be interested in learning more about how these symptoms manifest, and why they affect us the way that they do.
To understand the brain and bladder connection, it is important to be familiar with the key areas involved in the urinary process. The brainstem, particularly a region called the pontine micturition center (PMC), is primarily responsible for coordinating the urinary process and controlling the relaxation of the urethral sphincter, which allows urine to be released. The frontal cortex is responsible for voluntary control, which will enable individuals to decide when to urinate. The spinal cord transmits signals between the brain and the bladder. For the urinary system to properly function, each of these key areas needs to work.
BEST Health System works closely with patients suffering from incontinence issues to help them achieve relief. We understand that these conditions are often overlooked and underserved. At BEST, we strive to help patients find relief and get back to a regular lifestyle.
Neurological Causes of Incontinence
Disruptions in the brain-bladder connection can cause incontinence problems. There are various reasons why patients may develop these conditions. Let’s take a look into some of the primary causes of incontinence:
- Nerve Damage. Damaged nerves can send incorrect signals to the bladder, or no signals at all, which leads to a lack of control over bladder contraction, resulting in leakage and accidents.
- Weakened Muscles. The muscles used to urinate can weaken or become damaged as a result of aging, childbirth, menopause, obesity, and more. This can make it difficult to hold urine for extended periods.
- Medications. Certain medications like diuretics, muscle relaxants, narcotics, and antihistamines can cause urinary incontinence.
- UTIs. A UTI can irritate the bladder and lead to a strong urge to urinate. Sometimes, this can result in leaking or accidents.
Treatment Options for Incontinence Issues
If you have been experiencing incontinence issues, or if you have been diagnosed with an incontinence condition, educating yourself is an important step in finding relief. Incontinence issues can be complex, and often the cause can be difficult to determine. If you suffer from urinary incontinence–here is a general treatment guide.
Treatment will typically begin with a range of at-home treatments including pelvic floor exercises, bladder training, fluid management, and absorbent products. Patients are often able to manage their symptoms through at-home efforts, however, if you experience persistent symptoms, you may consider additional therapies including physical therapy and medications to reduce accidents and improve control.
If patients are not able to achieve relief through conservative therapies, they may consider minimally invasive surgical interventions. Sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) is a modern therapy recommended to patients who suffer from severe incontinence problems. This involves the implantation of a small device near the buttocks which has lead wires placed near the sacral nerve. The device will send tiny, painless electrical pulses to stimulate the bladder muscles to work appropriately. This is a minimally invasive treatment option that helps many incontinence patients find meaningful relief.
BEST Health System
At BEST Health System, we work with patients to help them live a more comfortable lifestyle. We understand that health-related concerns can constantly get in the way–and are impossible to avoid. Our philosophy is to help patients find the treatment path that includes the least invasive option. BEST Health System offers trial programs so patients can see if sacral nerve stimulation is the right treatment path for them.
Are you interested in learning more? Connect with our team at BEST Health System today.
