Overactive Bladder - How Can It Be Managed?

Not always nature’s calls can be answered immediately. Sometimes, situations demand that you control the urge for a while. When you are not able to control the urge, things may go haywire.
If you are experiencing a frequent urge to urinate and unable to control it, it might be a case of overactive bladder which can be quite embarrassing and can disrupt normal routine to a considerable extent. But if you consult a Urologist regarding this it can be managed and treated, so no need for concern. Know about the ways it can be handled efficiently as mentioned below.

Managing the condition
Practicing pelvic floor exercises and bladder training are some of the most effective natural treatments for overactive bladder. Research indicates that these non-drug remedies are immensely useful for many women and they don’t have any side effects.

1. Pelvic floor exercises- There are many workouts available for strengthening the muscles controlling urination. While practicing the pelvic floor exercises, you will be able to hold, tighten and then relax the muscles which you use for starting and stopping the flow of urination. A particular type of training known as biofeedback can help in locating the right muscles that assist in squeezing. You can begin with Kegel exercises and slowly work the way up.
2. Bladder training- This is another essential treatment for overactive bladder which doesn’t involve any medication. It helps in changing the way one uses the bathroom. In place of urinating whenever you feel the urge, you will allow your body to urinate at set times of the day, a phenomenon termed as scheduled voiding.
3. Treatment through drugs-In people suffering from overactive bladder, the muscles present in the walls of the bladder start working at the wrong time. A group of medications termed as anticholinergics can treat the problem by blocking the nerve signals associated with the bladder muscle contractions. Common drugs of this category include Trospium, Tolterodine, Solifenacin, and others. The primary side effect of this drug is dry mouth though in specific instances it can cause blurred vision and rise in a heartbeat.

But this category of drug is not suited for everyone, and such people are prescribed with beta-3 adrenergic agonists. They work by activating the protein receptor present in the bladder muscles which relaxes and aids the bladder to store urine. Botox injections, which are commonly used for alleviating wrinkles are sometimes injected into the bladder muscle to help it relax. It helps in increasing the capacity of the bladder and reduce the level of contractions. But it is only given to people who are not able to control their symptoms with other forms of treatments.

Other simple measures such as avoiding drinking caffeine or a lot of fluids before any activity or before going to bed are advised. If the condition arises due to an underlying medical condition, your physician will provide the treatment accordingly. So, follow the instructions entirely to avail relief and cure.

In case you have a concern or query you can always consult an expert & get answers to your questions!