What is overactive bladder?
Overactive bladder is a condition that causes a sudden and intense urge to urinate. The urge is usually difficult to control. When overactive bladder leads to involuntary urine loss, it’s called urge incontinence.
About 33 million people in the United States are diagnosed with overactive bladder, but the real number is likely much higher. This is because many don’t seek treatment.
It’s completely understandable to feel embarrassed about this condition. Just know that the friendly and professional team at Bela Vida Urogynecology is here to help you. They offer a variety of treatments for overactive bladder that can dramatically improve your quality of life.
What are the symptoms of overactive bladder?
The primary symptom of overactive bladder is a strong urge to urinate that you can’t control. Other overactive bladder symptoms include:
- Frequent urination at least eight times per day.
- Urge incontinence, or leaking urine before you can reach a bathroom.
- Nocturia, or the need to get out of bed to urinate at least two times per night.
Symptoms of overactive bladder can interfere with your work, sleep, exercise, and social life. Without treatment, these symptoms can make you feel anxious, isolated, and depressed.
You don’t have to wait for overactive bladder to negatively affect your life before you ask for help. Even if your symptoms aren’t severe, the compassionate team at Bela Vida Urogynecology has a treatment that’s right for you.
How is overactive bladder diagnosed and treated?
First, your provider at Bela Vida Urogynecology spends time with you discussing your symptoms and medical history. They perform a physical exam and may take tests, such as:
- Urinalysis
- Ultrasound
- Cystoscopy, which involves inserting a narrow tube with a tiny lens into your bladder
- Urodynamic testing, which evaluates how your urinary tract holds and releases urine
Then, they work with you to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. There are many treatment options for overactive bladder, including:
- Lifestyle changes like monitoring your diet and keeping a bladder diary
- Oral medications to relax your bladder muscles
- Procedures like neurotoxin injection into the bladder wall to reduce bladder hyperactivity
- InterStim electrical nerve modulator
If your symptoms persist despite treatment, they may recommend surgery.
To find relief from overactive bladder, call Bela Vida Urogynecology or book an appointment online today.