Bladder control: a common and treatable problem

Most people don't think twice about the ability to control their bladders. However, millions of Americans struggle with overactive bladders on a daily basis. Whenever they go out, they must make mental notes of where the restrooms are, or how long it will be until they pass a restroom. When they eat meals, they must be careful about the foods they eat and how much they drink. In the middle of the night, they sometimes wake up several times with the uncontrollable urge to urinate. Bladder control problems are not easy to deal with; to make matters worse, people who share this problem are often reluctant to talk about it.

More than 33 million Americans fit the definition of having overactive bladders, and the vast majority of these cases can be remedied through proper treatment. Treating most cases of overactive bladders is easy. Reducing stress, performing certain exercises and monitoring fluid intake is enough to relieve most people of their symptoms. Sometimes, an overactive bladder can be more difficult to calm, and occasionally a bladder control problem may signal a more dangerous health risk.

Still, the fact remains that most people with overactive bladder can find help if they're willing to talk about their conditions. If you or someone you know has an overactive bladder, schedule an appointment with a doctor to receive a health evaluation. This site was created to provide the basic information about bladder control problems, symptoms and treatments. We've pulled information from numerous resources to bring you the information you need.

Correcting overactive bladders

Why do bladder control problems happen? Bladder control problems may result from weak pelvic muscles, or from an injury that caused damage to the pelvic region. Pregnancies can cause bladder control problems, making incontinence a major problem for adult women. Illnesses, age and medicine can also contribute to the development of overactive bladder. Even stress can cause people to develop bladder control problems, highlighting counseling and lifestyle changes as effective means of treatment.

Of course, each person's case of overactive bladder is different. Rather than attempt to create a one-size-fits-all course of treatment, doctors prefer to formulate treatment plans on a case-by-case basis. Some people can overcome their symptoms with nothing more than simple exercises to strengthen the pelvic muscles, while others may need a combination of therapy and medication. Bladder control problems are incredibly personal, and treatment plans should be issued in the same manner – to fit each individual.