What is Overactive Bladder Syndrome and what can be done to manage symptoms.

What is Overactive Bladder Syndrome (OAB)?

Overactive Bladder Syndrome is where someone suddenly gets a strong need to pass urine. This is due to miscommunication between the brain and bladder, causing the bladder muscle to contract too often, involuntarily. It is a common problem, affecting 12% of the UK population (male and female). Often there is no known cause but symptoms can worsen with age.

The risk of getting OAB can be increased by:

• A neurological condition such as Multiple Sclerosis
• Fluid intake; not drinking enough can cause an overactive bladder, as can drinking too much alcohol and/or caffeine
• Bladder issues such as bladder stones or bladder cancer
• Benign prostate diseases, ie prostate enlargement
• Certain medications that have a diuretic effect

What are the symptoms?

Some of the symptoms you may experience with OAB include;

• A frequent, strong and sudden need to urinate
• Urine leakage following this urge
• Waking up more at night to pass urine

How is the condition diagnosed?

There are a number of things that your GP, Urologist or Urogynaecologist can do to identify an overactive bladder, including a urine test, physical examination and bladder scans. You may also be asked to keep a symptom diary to identify triggers.

Is an Overactive Bladder worse at night?

Sometimes, OAB can be worse at night. If you find that you only experience no symptoms in the day but do at night, you may have nocturia, a condition that causes frequent urination at night.

What are the treatment options?

For those living with an overactive bladder it can be inconvenient, embarrassing with a feeling of low self-esteem and self-control. However, there are treatments and ways to manage your symptoms to help you live more freely. Such management options include lifestyle changes, such as diets, fluid intake, losing weight and bladder training. Using products such as pads, disposable underwear or a sheath and drainage bag system, if you a male, can also help with an overactive bladder. Certain medications can also be prescribed.

Further Resources:

Bladder Health UK: A charity that supports people with bladder challenges.

‍