Overactive Bladder Syndrome

Question 1

What is overactive bladder syndrome?

Answer 1

a chronic condition that results from hyperactivity of the detrusor muscle, a layer of the urinary bladder wall.

Question 2

What are signs and symptoms of overactive bladder syndrome?

Answer 2

Primarily urinary urgency
Also may have:
1. Urge incontinence: involuntary leakage accompanied by or immediately preceded by urgency
2. High frequency of urination
3. Nocturia

Question 3

What are key differentials to consider with overactive bladder syndrome?

Answer 3

1. Urinary tract infections: Characterised by dysuria, urgency, frequency, suprapubic pain and haematuria.
2. Bladder stones: Symptoms include lower abdominal pain, dysuria, intermittent stream, and blood in the urine.
3. Interstitial cystitis: Presents with symptoms such as chronic pelvic pain, a persistent, urgent need to urinate, and frequent urination.
4. Diabetic neuropathy: Can cause bladder dysfunction, resulting in symptoms like frequent urination and incontinence.

Question 4

What investigations are key for overactive bladder syndrome diagnosis?

Answer 4

Urinalysis and culture: To rule out infection
Frequency/volume chart: To assess the severity of the condition
Urodynamics: To evaluate bladder muscle function