Understanding Overactive Bladder Symptoms
Overactive bladder (OAB) is a fairly common condition that affects many individuals over the age of 60. This condition refers to the frequent and sudden urge to urinate, and lack of physical ability to control it. Common symptoms include frequent urination, leaking, and waking up throughout the night to urinate. These symptoms can be incredibly difficult to manage and may prevent patients from living a comfortable, fulfilling lifestyle. Oftentimes, patients with OAB do not see their families and friends as often as they’d like, because their condition tends to take over.
At BEST Health System, we want to help you return to the lifestyle you once enjoyed. You deserve to live a comfortable life regardless of your condition. If you suspect that you have OAB or you have recently been diagnosed, continue reading to learn more about overactive bladder and ways to manage it.
Lifestyle Changes Patients with Overactive Bladder Might Make
Patients with overactive bladder can benefit greatly from making lifestyle changes to help manage their symptoms. Some key modifications they might consider include monitoring and adjusting fluid intake, avoiding potential bladder irritants such as caffeine, alcohol, artificial sweeteners, and spicy foods, maintaining a healthy weight to alleviate pressure on the bladder, practicing pelvic floor muscle exercises to strengthen the muscles responsible for controlling urination, establishing a regular bathroom schedule to train the bladder, and quitting smoking which can worsen overactive bladder symptoms.
By implementing these lifestyle changes under the guidance of a healthcare professional, patients can potentially improve their quality of life and reduce the frequency and severity of overactive bladder episodes.
Tips to Manage a Healthy Lifestyle with this Condition
Living with an overactive bladder can be challenging, but there are several tips to help manage a healthy lifestyle while dealing with this condition. First and foremost, maintaining a healthy diet and staying hydrated is essential. Avoiding irritants such as caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods can help minimize bladder irritation.
Pelvic floor exercises can also strengthen the muscles that control urinary function, reducing symptoms of overactive bladder. Additionally, managing stress through relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation can improve overall bladder health. It may also be beneficial to keep a bladder diary to track triggers and patterns to better understand and manage symptoms.
Sacral Nerve Stimulation with BEST Health System
Sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) is an advanced treatment option recommended to patients with an overactive bladder. This therapy involves implanting a small device in the buttocks region that utilizes lead wires to send tiny electric impulses to the sacral nerve. These pulses improve communications between the brain and the bladder, helping patients manage their overactive bladder condition.
Are you interested in learning more about sacral nerve stimulation? Connect with BEST Health System team today to schedule your trial.
