How to Cope With an Overactive Bladder
In the United States, an estimated 33 million individuals suffer from the bothersome symptoms associated with overactive bladder, which is a common condition affecting 30 percent of men and 40 percent of women. OAB is characterized as a syndrome that causes an abrupt and unstoppable need to urinate, and it is considered to be one of the top 10 chronic medical issues that affect women between ages 45 and 64.
Although OAB can be effectively treated, more than 80 percent of women with OAB symptoms do not seek treatment, possibly because of embarrassment or a belief that OAB is due to the aging process. OAB is not actually a normal part of aging, but the risk of developing OAB symptoms increases with aging. Left untreated, OAB can negatively affect your life by interfering in daily activities such as work, social activities, exercise and sleep.
[Read: 8 Steps to Fall Asleep Fast .]
Causes and Risk Factors
The cause of OAB is still unknown; however, research has determined that OAB symptoms are the result of the bladder's inability to relax and hold more urine. OAB occurs when the nerve signals between your brain and your bladder alert your bladder to empty, even when it is not full or when the bladder muscles contract while the bladder is still filling.
Both men and women are at risk for OAB. According to the American Urology Association, women who are postmenopausal and men who have had prostate issues appear to be at greater risk for developing OAB. Those with neurologic conditions such as multiple sclerosis, those who have had a stroke and those with diabetic neuropathy also have a greater risk of developing OAB. Diets high in foods and drinks that can irritate the bladder (such as spicy foods, caffeine and alcohol) can worsen or aggravate OAB symptoms in some individuals.
Symptoms
OAB may involve a variety of symptoms, such as:
-- Urinary urgency: the inability to postpone the need to urinate
-- Frequent urination: the need to urinate at least eight times per day
-- Urge incontinence: leakage of urine when an individual has the urge to urinate
-- Nocturia: the need to interrupt sleep to urinate at least two times during the night
[See: Pharmacists' Top Recommended Urinary Tract Infection Treatments .]
Diagnosis
If you suspect you have OAB or if you are experiencing any of the symptoms associated with OAB, it is important that you see your primary health care provider for a thorough evaluation. Your health care provider will ask questions about your symptoms, diet and medical and medication histories. An examination and tests may be required to determine the cause of your symptoms.
Treatment
If you are given a diagnosis of OAB, your health care provider will determine the best treatment for you. Various measures can be taken to help you effectively manage and treat OAB. Treatment generally involves a combination of therapies, which may include lifestyle and dietary modifications, drug therapy and behavior modifications. In 2013, the FDA approved Oxytrol For Women, a patch manufactured by MSD Consumer Care Inc. This product became the first nonprescription treatment for OAB. In May 2014, AZO Bladder Control with Go Less, a drug-free dietary supplement, became available to manage OAB symptoms.
In addition, several prescription medications can be used to treat OAB. These medications, which are available in oral and topical formulations, relax the bladder and prevent it from contracting at the wrong time. The most common types of medications prescribed for the treatment of OAB include antimuscarinic medications and a relatively new medication that is classified as a beta-3 adrenergic agonist. Your health care provider will determine which medication, if any, is best for you. Your pharmacist will provide you with information about the medication, including its dosing and potential adverse effects.
Behavioral therapy techniques that may be used for OAB include bladder retraining and pelvic floor therapy exercises. Dietary changes that may help decrease or alleviate OAB symptoms include eliminating or decreasing your intake of tea, coffee, alcohol, chocolate, citrus juices, spicy or acidic foods and foods or drinks that contain artificial sweeteners. Because smoking and excess weight can worsen OAB symptoms, it can help to maintain a healthy weight and stop smoking.
[Read: How Do I Quit Smoking? ]
Living with OAB
Left untreated, OAB can negatively affect an individual's life by causing embarrassment, depression, stress and anxiety. But the good news is that with proper treatment, you can take control of OAB and live a healthy, active life without worrying about OAB symptoms. It is important to adhere to the recommended therapy, maintain routine visits with your primary health care provider to discuss your concerns and immediately seek medical care if your condition worsens or any adverse effects develop.
Educational Resources for Overactive Bladder
National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse website
