Text size:

Bladder Control Problems

Bladder control problems are experienced by millions of people, most of whom have never sought medical treatment for a condition that can compromise quality of life and overall health for women and men of all ages. A bladder control problem such as urinary incontinence is not, as many believe, simply an inevitable consequence of aging, but a highly treatable condition in most patients.

The Bladder

The bladder is a muscular balloon-shaped organ that stores and eliminates urine. It sits in the pelvis and is held in place by ligaments attached to other organs and the pelvic bones.

Several muscles, organs, and nerves are involved in collecting, storing and distributing urine. The kidneys create urine by filtering wastes, toxins and extra water from the bloodstream. The ureters are tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder. Normally, urine flows in one direction. If urine backs up toward the kidneys, infections and kidney damage can occur. The tube that carries urine from the bladder is called the urethra. Ring-like muscles called sphincters help keep the urethra closed so urine doesn't leak from the bladder before you're ready to release it.

All of these complex body systems must work together to control a healthy bladder.

  • Pelvic floor muscles hold the bladder in place.
  • Sphincter muscles keep the urethra closed.
  • The bladder muscle relaxes when it fills with urine and squeezes when it's time to urinate.
  • Nerves carry signals from the bladder to let the brain know when the bladder is full. A healthy bladder can hold up to 16 ounces (2 cups) of urine comfortably.
  • Nerves also carry signals from the brain to tell the bladder when it's time to urinate.
  • Hormones, such as estrogen in women, help keep the lining of the bladder and urethra healthy.

Identical Symptoms, Distinct Conditions

Dysfunction in any of these systems may create bladder control problems. Because they are so closely interrelated, it is difficult to distinguish a condition by symptoms alone. Unfortunately, incontinence, painful urination, cloudy urine, pelvic discomfort, etc., may be signs of a temporary urinary tract infection or of a serious cancer of the bladder, kidneys or prostate. Similar symptoms may reveal the presence of such serious diseases or disorders as multiple sclerosis and diabetes.

For all of these reasons it is important to seek medical care for bladder control problems as soon as symptoms appear. Even if the condition is not serious, it could cause serious discomfort that is highly treatable and not simply a natural benchmark of aging.

Contact a specialist in the Bladder Health Program of South Florida at Memorial Hospital Miramar to discuss your condition and the available treatment options.



Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in the Bladder Health Program of South Florida website should be used solely for educational purposes. It is not intended to replace the independent judgment of a healthcare provider. The appropriateness of a course of treatment for a patient may vary from the medical information provided herein due to individual conditions and/or complications. Always ask your physician about all treatment options, as well as the risks and benefits.

Share