What is Overactive Bladder (OAB)?
Overactive bladder (OAB) is a condition characterized by a sudden, uncontrollable urge to urinate, which can sometimes result in urinary incontinence (the accidental leakage of urine). Individuals with OAB often experience frequent trips to the restroom and may struggle to manage the intense urge, leading to disruptions in daily life.
This condition can affect people of all ages, though it is more prevalent among older adults, especially women. At LifePlus Hospital, we specialize in treating overactive bladder and providing solutions to improve our patients’ quality of life.
- 080 2525 44 44
- 080 2525 66 66
- 98444 47766
Symptoms of OAB: Frequent Urination and Urgency
- Urgency: A sudden, intense need to urinate that is difficult to suppress.
- Frequency: Urinating more than eight times in 24 hours or waking up multiple times at night (nocturia).
- Incontinence: Experiencing leakage of urine before reaching the bathroom.
- Urge Incontinence: A specific type of incontinence where the sudden urge to urinate is so overwhelming that it leads to leakage.
Causes of Overactive Bladder: Neurological and Lifestyle Factors
- Muscle Overactivity: Hyperactivity of the bladder’s detrusor muscle can cause frequent contractions.
- Neurological Conditions: Disorders like Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, or diabetes can interfere with nerve signals that control the bladder.
- Age: Aging weakens bladder muscles and reduces their capacity to hold urine.
- Infections: Bladder infections or UTIs may mimic OAB symptoms.
- Lifestyle Influences: High caffeine or alcohol intake and obesity can exacerbate symptoms.
- Hormonal Changes: Postmenopausal hormonal shifts often weaken the bladder and surrounding muscles.
- Medications: Certain drugs affecting the urinary system or dehydration levels may trigger OAB symptoms.
Diagnosing Overactive Bladder: Tests and Assessments
Diagnosis begins with understanding your medical history and symptoms. At LifePlus Hospital, we utilize the following methods:
1. Detailed Medical History:
Gathering information about your symptoms, habits, and overall health.
2. Urinalysis:
A urine test to detect infections, blood, or abnormalities.
3. Bladder Diary:
Keeping a record of urination patterns and fluid intake.
4. Post-Void Residual Volume Test:
Measuring urine left in the bladder after urination.
5. Urodynamic Tests:
Evaluating bladder function, capacity, and muscle activity.
Treatment Options for Overactive Bladder
At LifePlus Hospital, we offer a variety of treatment options tailored to the cause and severity of OAB:
- Lifestyle Modifications:
- Managing fluid intake to prevent overburdening the bladder.
- Avoiding bladder irritants like caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods.
- Incorporating weight management strategies to reduce bladder pressure.
- Pelvic Floor Exercises: Strengthening pelvic muscles through Kegel exercises enhances bladder control.
- Medications:
- Anticholinergics: To reduce bladder spasms.
- Beta-3 Agonists: To relax bladder muscles and increase capacity.
- Topical Estrogen: Improves bladder health in postmenopausal women.
- Botox Injections: Reduces muscle contractions in severe cases.
- Bladder Training: Gradually increasing the time between bathroom visits to improve bladder capacity.
- Neuromodulation Therapy:
- Sacral Nerve Stimulation: Implants that regulate bladder nerve signals.
- Percutaneous Tibial Nerve Stimulation (PTNS): A non-invasive approach to stimulating bladder nerves.
- Surgery: Reserved for extreme cases, procedures include bladder augmentation or removal.
Why Choose LifePlus Hospital?
Expert Team:
Experienced specialists in diagnosing and treating ED.
Tailored Care:
Customized treatment plans for each patient's unique needs.
Confidential Support:
A safe, private environment for your care.
Advanced Technology:
Cutting-edge solutions for optimal results.
