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Overactive Bladder

Overactive Bladder (OAB) is a condition that results from sudden, involuntary urge to urinate. It most often reveals itself through urge incontinence, one of several common types of urinary incontinence. Although urinary urgency is the fundamental symptom, it is very frequently associated with urinary frequency (day and/or night) and involuntary leakage.

Causes of Overactive Bladder

The causes of an overactive bladder typically originate from involuntary spasms or contractions of the bladder (detrusor) muscles which are too weak or active. Involuntary actions of bladder muscles can occur because of damage to the nerves of the bladder, to the nervous system (spinal cord and brain), or to the muscles themselves. An increased sensation to void may also be caused by bladder nerves sending inappropriate signals to the brain. These physiologic changes result in a strong, sudden and unstoppable need to urinate even though the bladder may only contain a small amount of urine.

Prevalence of Overactive Bladder

Although it can happen at any age, overactive bladder is especially common in older adults. However, the condition should not be considered a normal part of aging. Overactive bladder affects an estimated 1 in 11 adults in the United States. In addition, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, stroke, and injury all can harm bladder nerves or muscles.

According to the National Center for Health Statistics, about 37.4 million Americans experience OAB, including 16 percent of men and 16.9 percent of women. Urinary incontinence is more common in women than men, because the bladder outlet tends to be shorter and weaker.

Symptoms of Overactive Bladder

  • Frequent urination, in the daytime and at night (nocturia)
  • Involuntary leakage of urine (associated with strong urges ) –urge incontinence
  • Sudden and urgent need to urinate

Testing for Overactive Bladder

  • Urinalysis or urine culture
  • Cystoscopy
  • Pad test
  • Pelvic or abdominal ultrasound
  • Urinary stress test
  • Urodynamic studies

Treatments for Overactive Bladder

  • Diet modification
  • Fluid management
  • Medical modification
  • Bladder retraining
  • Biofeedback
  • Physical therapy – Kegel exercises
  • Neuromodulation (nerve stimulation)
  • Botox injections

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.

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