Our bodies are always working around the clock to provide for the needs of the body. Our bio-circuitry is responsible for transporting fluids around our body. On average, the human body will need to drink around 2.7 – 3.5 liters of water in a day, depending on the intensity of the physical activities that we do.
But water isn’t just crucial to most of our bodily functions; it also serves as a way for our boy to flush out toxins and foreign bodies that might cause problems. Since water is one of the essential parts of the urinary system, it’s only logical that we keep it healthy and “active.” But in certain social situations, an overactive bladder can do more harm than good.
A condition known as an overactive bladder (OAB) is a condition where an individual won’t “hold” the contents of their bladder since the muscles contract involuntarily. For most individuals with an overactive bladder, it can be hard to control urine release (called urge incontinence) and can often lead to some rather embarrassing situations. This condition usually happens more than usual in 24 hours.
There are two types of OAB:
- Dry OAB – This is characterized by an urgent need for the individual to urinate multiple times during the day.
- Wet OAB – This is known as sudden urination, and the individual won’t be able to hold in the urine even before they reach the toilet. This is also called urge incontinence.
So what are the signs of an overactive bladder? How do you effectively prevent it? Here’s what you’ll need to know when it comes to having a healthy bladder.
Causes of an Overactive Bladder
Not being able to hold the bladder’s contents is natural among toddlers and children since the muscles of the bladder have yet to mature. This is one reason why most toddlers and babies will usually pee when they’re in bed. As a person grows older, they will have better control of their bladder.
There are a variety of factors that could lead to an overactive bladder. Most experts would say that this commonly happens among individuals that are already in their middle ages. Recent studies have shown that 15% of adults have an overactive bladder. But it’s usually women that are more more likely to experience these conditions.
For most individuals with work and daily obligations, OAB can often lead to a plummet in productivity, especially when most individuals will have to go back to the restroom now and then. Fortunately, an overactive bladder can be prevented and treated. There’s no need for intricate machinery when medications and a change in the individual’s lifestyle can go a long way.
Signs and Symptoms Of An Overactive Bladder
Most of the time, an overactive bladder isn’t just characterized by incontinence. There are a variety of “triggers” and early symptoms of an overactive bladder. Incidents like laughing too hard or holding in your urine for quite some time can often lead to an overactive bladder. ;
Here are some tell-tale signs and symptoms that you should look out for:
- Frequent urination – There’s bound to be an increase in the need to urinate. The average individual will urinate around ten times a day. Most workers that have to urinate frequently will have problems with their productivity.
- Nocturia – Not to be confused with insomnia, but nocturia is usually characterized by getting up at least once or twice every night to urinate. This can disturb the individual’s sleeping cycle, which can often lead to a lack of sleep.
- Urgent Urination – This is the sudden urge to find a place to urinate. Most of the time, this can lead to the failure to hold urine in the bladder for an extended period of time.
When Should You See a Professional?
You shouldn’t worry if you have an overactive bladder since it’s more common in adults than you think. However, it’s still important to be mindful that this is not a normal condition, and this could be a precursor to a more serious health condition. ;
When in doubt of your situation, you should consult a professional that’s well-versed in the matter. Fortunately, there are urologists that are equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and are known for giving a comprehensive diagnosis of your condition. Not addressing these symptoms can often lead to more complications, which can further hinder your daily programming.
Although our urinary system is essential in flushing out toxins and foreign materials from our bloodstream, having an overactive bladder can be a problem for individuals that want to go through their daily lives. The best way to prevent OAB is by consulting a professional and looking out for any early signs and symptoms. After all, prevention is critical. ;
