Overactive bladders: learn the basics

More than 33 million Americans have overactive bladders, yet the vast majority of people with this problem are unwilling to discuss their conditions. Having an overactive bladder can lead to situations that are embarrassing or socially awkward. However, this is a condition that can be treated through medication, therapy and lifestyle changes. If you or someone you know has an overactive bladder, call your doctor today and begin taking charge of the problem.

Bladder control may seem simple, but in reality, the act of controlling your bladder relies on a series of involuntary and voluntary actions. Many things can happen to the body that can cause that process to break down, and any interruption can cause a person to experience bladder control problems. Some people may have trouble stopping the flow of urine from the bladder, while others may wake up in the middle of the night with uncontrollable urges to urinate. Fortunately, there are several ways to correct your body’s bladder control functions, though coping with these problems may be difficult or stressful.

Overactive bladder solutions

People who have bladder control problems have several treatment options to choose from. Often, the type of treatment a patient requires depends on the causes of his or her incontinence. Bladder control problems often originate from weak muscles in the pelvic region or around the urethra – these muscles are crucial in allowing you to control your bladder. Exercise, medicine, dieting and even electrical stimulation can be used to strengthen these muscles and help patients regain control. Some doctors also recommend medical devices for the treatment of bladder control problems. These devices include urine seals, adult diapers and urethral inserts, all of which can counteract moments of uncontrolled urination. Bed pans are also used by people who wake up at night with frequent urges to urinate.

Other people with bladder control problems sign up for training programs where they learn how to carefully monitor and schedule their urination habits. All of these methods help people live more comfortable lives while regaining control over their urinary functions.

Causes of overactive bladder problems

Several factors can contribute to bladder control problems. Common causes of bladder control problems include:

• Muscle weakness: If the muscles in the pelvic region are weak or injured, then you may have an increasingly difficult time controlling your bladder. Sudden movements, injuries, sneezing or laughter can cause a person with weak pelvic muscles to experience seepage or unwanted urination. This type of muscle weakness commonly occurs in women following menopause, childbirth or pregnancy.

• Blockages in the bladder: An overactive bladder may be stemming from a blockage somewhere in the urinary tract. When a blockage occurs, the body’s delicate urinary system doesn’t function as it should be. Removing the blockage can often fix overactive bladder problems that stem from this cause.

• Stress: The human body often reacts negatively to intense stress, and incontinence is a primary symptom of stress.  Lifestyle changes such as therapy, dieting, exercise or getting a new job can often help people who are suffering from stress-induced overactive bladders.

Overactive bladder problems can be treated

Not all bladder control problems are permanent. In fact, most cases of overactive bladders are only temporary, and even chronic problems can be treated to the point that accidents rarely happen. Treating overactive bladders requires making smart lifestyle choices and taking treatment plans seriously. Maintaining good overall health will prevent the onset of overactive bladder problems in most people, as other health problems are likely to cause damage to the body that will result in overactive bladder problems.