Controlling an Overactive Bladder
ROCHESTER, MINN. -- Do you find yourself always looking for the nearest bathroom wherever you go? Do you plan your schedule around a frequent need to urinate? And, do you visit the bathroom several times during the night? If so, you may have an overactive bladder, according to the November issue of Mayo Clinic Women's HealthSource.
Overactive bladder is one of the 10 most common chronic conditions in this country. It affects people of all ages, but it's more common in women with the gender gap narrowing with age. The exact number of cases is impossible to count since many go unreported. Overactive bladder is not necessarily an unavoidable sign of aging, so be sure to report symptoms to your physician. If you think you have overactive bladder, here is what you need to know:
Overactive bladder affects people of all ages and both genders. It can take a toll on almost every part of your life, including your social life, relationships, career, recreation, sex life and psychological well-being. For some people, symptoms are so bad that they quit working or stop going out altogether.
Overactive bladder is caused when the muscle that operates the bladder contracts while the bladder is filling, leading to a tremendous urge to urinate which results in frequent trips to the bathroom and, sometimes, incontinence.
Other conditions can mimic overactive bladder, such as a urinary tract infection, bladder cancers or neurological problems, so it is important to have a doctor evaluate your symptoms. Evaluation usually includes a physical exam, keeping a diary for several days of how often you urinate and a urinalysis. If you do have an overactive bladder, the treatment will depend on the cause. More serious cases can require medication or, rarely, surgery.
You don't have to be a prisoner to your bladder. Talk to your doctor about your symptoms so you can resolve this irritating and potentially embarrassing condition.
Mayo Clinic Women's HealthSource is published monthly to help women enjoy healthier, more productive lives. Revenue from subscriptions is used to support medical research at Mayo Clinic.
Shelly Plutowski507-284-5005 (days)507-284-2511 (evenings)e-mail: [email protected]
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