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Overactive Bladder
Syndrome
W
hat is an Overactive Bladder?
Overactive bladder (OAB) syndrome is a
bladder-storage disorder characterized by the
following bladder symptoms:
1.Urgency – complaint of a sudden desire
to pass urine which is difficult to defer.
Sometimes, an involuntary leakage of urine
may occur (urge urinary incontinence).
2.Daytime urinary frequency – complaint of
voiding (during waking hours) more than previously considered normal
(usually > 7 times)
3.Nocturia – complaint of waking up (at night) at least once because of
the need to void
What are the causes and risk factors of an Overactive Bladder?
There are several conditions that may cause the signs and symptoms of
OAB, such as:
1.Aging - OAB can affect women of any age, but it occurs more often in
older adults. Still, OAB should not be considered a normal part of aging.
2.Urinary Tract Infection
3.Atrophic vaginitis – inflammation of the vagina secondary to estrogen
deficiency
4.Bladder stones or tumors
5.Excessive consumption of caffeine or alcohol
6.Diabetes mellitus
7.Medications (diuretics, psychotropics)
8.Restricted mobility
9.Neurological disorders (Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s, Multiple
sclerosis)
Oftentimes, the exact cause of OAB is not known.
What happens when you have an Overactive Bladder?
Normally, the bladder can store a significant volume of urine (400-
600ml) before it signals the need to empty itself. As the bladder muscles
gradually stretch during filling, it sends intermittent signals to the
brain, and you get the feeling of wanting to pass out urine. If it is not a
convenient time to void, the brain signals back, and the bladder muscles
remain relaxed, the urethral and pelvic floor muscles keep contracting,
and you are able to hold your urine. When you decide that you already
want to urinate, your brain sends nerve signals that coordinate the
relaxation of the pelvic floor and urethral muscles, and the contraction of
the bladder muscles which forces urine out.
In OAB, there is a problem with the nerves and muscles of the bladder
resulting in inappropriate or untimely bladder contractions even when
the volume of urine in the bladder is low. These spasms cause the sudden
urge to rush to the bathroom, which may even lead to leakage.
How is OAB diagnosed?
A detailed medical history is first obtained to identify potential risk
factors. Your doctor may also need to perform a focused neurological
examination to identify other possible conditions.
Other tests may include:
1.Urinalysis – to assess for any infection of the urinary tract
Disclaimer: Fit On Board gives only information that will help you understand ailments and its symptoms. Suggest
preventive measures but not as cures. It is still best suited for you to seek professional advice and consult your doctors…
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