Overactive Bladder

Do you run to the bathroom and nothing happens even though you have an uncontrollable urge to go to the bathroom? Do you have a sudden urge to go to the bathroom but have trouble making it in time? Do you go to the bathroom very frequently, more then 8 times a day with in a 24 hour period? Or do you plan your day around going to the bathroom? Well if you have answered yes to any of these questions then you could be suffering from a condition called overactive bladder.

An overactive bladder is not a natural part of the aging process. It is not caused by drinking an excessive about of fluids. It is not caused by an infection but the symptoms may be similar. Usually it is not something you should have to deal with. A tip to your health care provider is required to rule out any more serious problems prior to starting any type of home remedy.

When the bladder becomes full the brain signals the muscles in the bladder to contact causing urine to exit the body through the urethra. Normally this is under voluntary control. However for someone suffering from an overactive bladder the bladder can contract without warning causing frequent, sudden, and strong urges. Leakage is a common result.

The following can cause an overactive bladder:

Surgery can damage the nerves controlling the urinary track or weaken the muscles, thus causing involuntary contractions and making it harder to control the bladder.

Some medication such as sedatives, narcotics, and diuretics can have a detrimental effect in controlling your urinary system.

Chronic illness or conditions like multiple sclerosis, diabetes, stroke, Parkinson disease and even obesity can cause you to suffer from an overactive bladder.

Treatments for overactive bladder include drugs like VESIcare and Enablex can help by targeting the nerves or muscles that control the bladder thus helping to restore control of urination.

The Kegel exercise is a daily exercising of the pelvic muscles that is particularly helpful for younger women. If performed regularly the pelvic muscles can be strengthen enough to improve and even prevent urinary incontinence.

Good results are also found with vaginal weight training. Small weights are held in the vagina by tightening the vaginal muscles resulting in stronger muscle control.

The pelvic floor muscle tone can be improved with a mild electrical shock to stimulate the muscle contractions. This is similar to the Electronic Muscle Stimulator Machines used by physical therapist.

Behavioral therapies will help people gain control of their bladder by teaching people to resist the urge to go to the bathroom for longer and longer periods of time. Using a set schedule to use the bathroom is also a major part of behavioral therapy.

Biofeedback helps people gain awareness and control of their pelvic muscles.

Always consult your doctor before using this information.

This Article is nutritional in nature and is not to be construed as medical advice.

David Cowley has created numerous articles on bladder problems. He has also created a Web Site dedicated to bladder problems and how to treat them. Visit Bladder Treatment