Best treatment options for an overactive bladder
An overactive bladder is a problem that occurs when a normal bladder malfunctions. It results in a person feeling a sudden, uncontrollable urge to urinate. A decrease in the bladder control may lead to the involuntary loss of urine as well making one feel embarrassed due to this. However, only after proper medical attention and evaluating the underlying cause for this condition, should you opt for an overactive bladder treatment. This article will shed light on the causes, treatments, and remedies for an overactive bladder.
What is an overactive bladder?
- Millions of Americans are affected by this condition. It is not to be mistaken for a disease, since it is a urinary symptom that can be managed.
- A bladder can malfunction due to a involuntary muscle contractions. Sometimes, the exact cause for it cannot be pinpointed and more of a general reason is identified.
- It is best to consult a doctor to find the underlying cause for cases such as these.
What are the causes of an overactive bladder?
Here are the most common causes for this condition:
- Neurological conditions: There are certain conditions that can hamper the signal between the bladder muscle and nerves. This commonly happens due to diseases like multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and a stroke.
- Nerve damage: Another main cause of overactive bladder is nerve damage. This can be due to infections in the spinal cord or brain, diabetic neuropathy, neural tube defects, any sort of trauma to the pelvis, abdomen or the spine.
Damages caused during accidents or surgeries can also lead to this condition.
When should you visit a doctor?
If you detect certain symptoms surfacing, it is advisable to consult a doctor. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned below you must visit a doctor:
- Sudden urge to urinate with difficulty in controlling it at all.
- Involuntary loss of urine frequently.
- Frequent urination which includes urinating more than 8 times in a day.
- Waking up multiple times at night to urinate.
These symptoms can disrupt your life as an overactive bladder can constantly interrupt your day to day activities. It can even ruin your sleep cycle. This is a condition that needs to be addressed or else it can even worsen over time. You can consult your specialist and take the necessary treatments for overactive bladder.
What are the best overactive bladder treatments?
An overactive bladder can disrupt and affect your lifestyle. The right treatment can help you manage the symptoms and eventually cure the condition in the long run. The overactive bladder – treatment requires both medications and behavioral changes. You will have to visit a doctor to seek the right treatment.
There is a list of drugs called anticholinergics that help fight the bladder muscle contractions. Here are some of the most effective drugs used for overactive bladder – treatment.
- Fesoterodine
- Oxybutynin
- Solifenacin
- Darifenacin
- Trospium
- Tolterodine
Out of these, the only drug that is available over the counter is Oxytrol. It works very well in curbing the symptoms of an overactive bladder. Other effective drugs include an antidepressant called Tofranil that helps relax the bladder muscles. Botox is another drug that can be injected into the bladder to relax the muscles. For some women, lack of estrogen can also lead to an overactive bladder. In such cases, estrogen is given as a treatment. Any treatment that is chosen for the condition must be decided by the doctor.
What are the home remedies for overactive bladder?
There are several home remedies you can opt for in an effort to control the condition. One of the first things to do is eat and drink things conducive to the health of your bladder.
- Pumpkin Seeds: They are filled with omega 3 fatty acids that have anti-inflammatory properties. A study has shown that they reduce incontinence.
- Kohki Tea: This is an extract of a plant in southern China. It is a sweet tea that can be bought over the counter in Japan. It is high on antioxidants and protects the bladder function.
- Here is a list of drinks that are good for the health of the bladder:
- Soy milk
- Cranberry juice
- Barley water
- Fruit Teas
- Diluted squash
- Fruit juices like pear and apple that are not acidic
Aside from these, there have been many cases where constipation is the underlying condition for an overactive bladder. You can prevent this by consuming more fiber on a daily basis and exercising regularly. Foods that include vegetables, fruits, and whole wheat bread must be included in the diet.
