Dealing With Overactive Bladder

We have all been there before: scrambling to find a bathroom when we have an urgent need to pee. This experience is normal once in a while, especially when traveling or when bathrooms are inaccessible. But when it occurs daily and frequently, it could indicate an overactive bladder or OAB. And OAB can put a crimp in our daily lives. Here are some ways to deal with this challenging condition.

Get a Firm Diagnosis

When someone urinates more than eight times a day, it could be an indication of an OAB. But there are multiple underlying medical conditions other than OAB that could contribute to the issue of needing to urinate frequently and abruptly. These include:

• Neurological conditions, like MS, Parkinson’s or stroke;
• Nerve damage from diabetes, trauma or neural tube defects;
• Medication side effects; 
• Urinary tract or kidney infections;
• Muscle weakness; or
• Prostate issues.

A doctor can do a physical exam, along with diagnostic testing to better determine the cause. From there, medication or further treatment may be able to help control symptoms. But too often people may feel embarrassed or not realize that their symptoms are treatable and avoid seeking help.

Limit Diuretics

If hitting the bathroom before the long work commute or going potty before bedtime is still not doing the trick, some people may try limiting excessive fluid. But the body needs plenty of fluids to maintain a healthy metabolism and reach optimal health. For most adults, 11.5 cups of water every day should do the trick. However, drinking sodas and coffee can stimulate the need to urinate more frequently because they act as diuretics so they should probably be avoided for a while.

Get Physical

Prescription medicine can help with symptoms, but often it's not a cure-all. Getting some physical activity daily can be a huge benefit, also. Activity helps to build up muscle groups, especially in the pelvic area, strengthening the bladder and pelvic wall muscles, possibly reducing the frequent urge to urinate. Some physicians may even prescribe physical therapy.

Be Prepared

It's important to be prepared on a daily basis when dealing with an OAB. There are several incontinence products on the market for both men and women to help with leaks and accidents. From pads to adult briefs and even underwear that can absorb leks and even odor, there are discreet ways to safeguard from leaks and embarrassment. Emptying the bladder before a road trip, along with frequent stops may also help. Keeping an emergency bag full of clean clothes on hand is also helpful. But the primary thing is to overcome the embarrassment and seek help.

Living with an overactive bladder can be a real challenge, but there is help. Getting to the root cause can be life-changing and is far better than avoiding the problem. Implementing a few lifestyle techniques can also improve daily living. Help is available as long as we have the courage to ask for it.

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