Weak Bladder

Bladder control issues are daily issues for some, while for others, these problems come and go. Contrary to popular belief, urine leakage or bladder control issues are not problems of old age, but can occur in anybody at any age. Millions of people are affected by weak bladder problems across the globe, however, the ratio of women affected is higher. Weak bladder problems lead to urine leakage and is also called incontinence. Urine leakage caused by weak bladder is not a disease and is a medical problem that can be treated.

Causes

There are two main types of bladder weaknesses.

Stress Incontinence: This type of incontinence occurs due to weak bladder muscles in the pelvic region. The function of the pelvic muscles is to hold the bladder in the right place, however, debilitation of these muscles and sagging results in inability of the sphincter to close completely. This partial closure of the sphincter results in urine leakage through the urethra. These muscles cannot handle extra pressure exerted while coughing, sneezing, laughing or exercising and causing incontinence. However, mental stress does not cause this kind of incontinence.

Urge Incontinence: The next type of incontinence is urge incontinence, wherein the person first has a strong urge to urinate, followed by urine leak. This condition is caused due to a nerve control abnormality. The nerves located in the bladder wall are to send a message to the brain when the bladder fills. This message tells the brain it's time to urinate and the brain sends motor impulses to urinate. Dysfunctional nerves send these messages more frequently than needed and sends impulses to urinate. However, before the person reaches the bathroom, incontinence occurs. Urge incontinence from nerve damage mostly occurs from diabetes, strokes or other medical conditions.

Urinary tract infection (UTI) like cystitis is also one of the other weak bladder causes. Intake of high levels of caffeine can also cause incontinence.

Symptoms

• Frequent involuntary urination
• Urine leakage on coughing, laughing, sneezing or exercising
• Sensation of pelvic pressure
• Stinging sensation while urinating (cystitis)
• Small amounts of blood in urine (cystitis)

Treatment

Though talking about weak bladder problems is not easy for many, it is important to consult a doctor about it. The doctor will prescribe antibiotics for bladder infection or any other urinary tract infection that is causing incontinence. If caffeine is what is causing irritation and conducing to incontinence, then you would be advised to stop the consumption of drinks containing caffeine. Alcohol consumption should also be stopped as it acts as a diuretic and conduces to frequent urination. Spicy and acidic fruits should also be avoided, to reduce urge continence. Also make sure you have regular bowel movements, as holding bowels can put pressure on the bladder causing it to release urine. Consumption of adequate amounts of dietary fiber will help have regular bowel movements. Saw palmetto and pumpkin seed are believed to help alleviate symptoms of weak bladder.

Weak bladders can cause a lot of discomfort and tension when you are outside the house. How long will you use pads to handle incontinence? Even if you feel embarrassed to consult your doctor, chuck the shyness and explain your problem. For your doctor, this is not an embarrassing or new situation. He or she will help you treat and get rid of this problem. Why live with a problem when there's a cure available!