Overactive bladder

Question 1

Definition

Answer 1

Umbrella term for the increase in urgency to urinate, incontinence, waking up in the middle of the night to urinate as well

Question 2

Aetiology

Answer 2

IN A NORMAL BLADDER:
– with a full bladder your brain signals the bladder and the bladder muscles to squeeze, this forces the urine out through the urethra. When the bladder is not full, the bladder is relaxed

IN AN OVERACTIVE BLADDER:
– if the nerve signals between your bladder and brain dont work properly, then OAB can result
– you can wait to go, you will feel a sudden, urgent need to go. This can happen even if your bladder isn’t full

MAY BE ASSOCIATED WITH:
– medications that cause your body to create a lot of urine
– drinking too much caffeine or alcohol
– difficulty walking, which can lead to bladder urgency if your unable to get to the bathroom quickly
– incomplete bladder emptying
– drugs- ketamine.

Question 3

Epidemiology

Answer 3

As many as 30% of men and 40% of women in the US live with OAB symptoms

Many suffering dont ask for help, as they may feel embarrassed

Question 4

Risk factors

Answer 4

Neurologic disorders or damage to the signals between your brain and bladder

Hormone changes

Pelvic muscle weakness or spasms

A urinary tract infection

Side effects from a medication

Diseases that affect the brain or spinal cord, like stroke or MS

Question 5

Clinical presentation

Answer 5

Passing urine many times during the day

People may leak urine when they feel the urge (incontinence)

Waking up at night to pass urine

Question 6

Prognosis

Answer 6

Prevention:
– maintain a healthy weight
– regular exercise
– limit alcohol and caffeine
– quit smoking
– do exercises that make the pelvic floor muscles stronger (Kegal exercises)