Overactive Bladder

What is OAB?

Overactive bladder (OAB) is a condition characterized by a sudden, uncontrollable urge to urinate, often leading to incontinence. It can also cause frequent urination throughout the day and night. OAB results from nerve signals that miscommunicate between the bladder and brain, causing the bladder muscles to contract too often.

Symptoms

OAB involves a range of urinary symptoms that significantly impact daily life. These symptoms result from abnormal bladder muscle contractions and miscommunication between the bladder and brain.

• A sudden, uncontrollable urge to urinate
• Urge incontinence (involuntary leakage of urine)
• Frequent urination, often more than eight times in 24 hours
• Nocturia (waking up more than once a night to urinate)

Causes

OAB can be caused by a variety of factors including neurological disorders, such as stroke or Parkinson’s disease, which affect the nerves that control bladder function. Other potential causes include urinary tract infections, bladder abnormalities like tumors or stones, and excessive consumption of caffeine or alcohol. Aging, diabetes, and hormonal changes, particularly in postmenopausal women, can also contribute to OAB symptoms.

Treatment

To manage OAB, patients can try lifestyle changes like adjusting fluid intake and practicing bladder training exercises. Medications that help relax the bladder muscles are often prescribed. In more persistent cases, treatments such as nerve stimulation and Botox injections may be recommended. Surgical options are considered only when other therapies are not effective.

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SOURCE: https://www.urologyhealth.org/urology-a-z/o/overactive-bladder-(oab)