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Overactive Bladder
Nearly 33 million adults suffer from overactive bladder; however, only 22% of physicians report they initiate conversation about the signs and symptoms of this disease. Many physicians wait for their patients to bring up the topic; therefore, it becomes extremely important to educate the public on the disease and to make them aware that it is not a common sign of aging.
Overactive bladder can occur at any age and can present as urgency, urge incontinence, frequency, nocturia, or stress incontinence. You do not have to show signs of all symptoms to be diagnosed as having overactive bladder. For example, some patients have what is called "wet" overactive bladder
meaning they show urge incontinence and have no control over their bladder while other patients have "dry" overactive bladder and have no signs of incontinence.
Prevention
Lifestyle modifications may be necessary to prevent the loss or decrease of control over the muscles
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of your urethral closing. Anything that exerts pressure on the pelvic muscles should be avoided. If overweight, it may be necessary to lose weight. It also is important to avoid straining during heavy lifting or bowel movements. If bowel movements are difficult, taking a stool softner can help decrease straining. Smoking can also exacerbate overactive bladder. Chronic coughing seen by smokers can put continued pressure on the abdomen. Kegel exercises can be performed 3-4 times per week to help strengthen the urethral closing.
Changes in your diet can also prevent irritation of the bladder, decreasing the loss of control. Foods to avoid include:
Tomatoes
Carbonated beverages
Citrus juice and fruits
Spicy foods
Vinegar
Caffeine
Artificial sweeteners
Yogurt
Bananas
Coffee or Tea
Chocolate
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You may also be taking a medication that can be causing the increase need for urination. Below is a list of medications. If you are taking any of these medications, you may need to contact your doctor; however, DO NOT discontinue a prescribed medication without first talking with the prescribing physician.
What Next?
If you experience signs and symptoms of overactive bladder and have tried the prevention techniques listed above, it may be necessary to speak to your doctor about your condition. There are prescription products available to treat overactive bladder which have a high success rate and may be right for you.
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