About Overactive Bladder
Overactive Bladder
Most people feel uncomfortable discussing bladder control problems with their friends, family and doctor. But if you suffer from any of the symptoms of overactive bladder (OAB), you’re not alone. More than 33 million Americans deal with OAB,1 defined as urgency frequency and urge incontinence.
Definition
Having an overactive bladder prevents you from controlling when and how much you urinate. You may experience unexpected small or large leaks, or use the bathroom very frequently.
Symptoms
There are different types of overactive bladder:
- Frequent urges to urinate (urgency-frequency)
- Inability to hold urine/leaking (urge incontinence)
Find tools to help you understand your condition at everyday-freedom.com:
Risk Factors
Pregnancy and childbirth, obesity, weak pelvic muscles, diabetes, bladder cancer or stones, and neurological disorders can contribute to OAB. Additionally, certain medications, high calcium levels, constipation, or inactivity can put you at risk.
Diagnosis
Talk to your doctor about your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. Your doctor will make a diagnosis based on your symptoms.
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References
1
Current Medical Research and Opinion 2004;20(6):791-801
Information on this site should not be used as a substitute for talking with your doctor. Always talk with your doctor about diagnosis and treatment information.