Definition:
Irritable bladder, or overactive bladder, is a problem with bladder function resulting in a sudden urge to urinate that is difficult to suppress. It may also result to incontinence, the involuntary loss of urine.
Diagnosis:
The doctor may order urodynamic tests, which are used to assess the function of the bladder and its ability to empty itself steadily and completely. These tests generally require a referral to a specialist in urinary disorders (urologist) or urinary disorders in women (urogynecologist).
Treatment:
The doctor might recommend medications, fluid consumptions, fiber intake, bladder training, double voiding, scheduled toilet trips, pelvic floor muscle exercises, and absorbent pads.
Symptoms and Signs:
Overactive bladder symptoms may mean you: Feel a strong, sudden urge to urinate; experience urge incontinence, the unintended loss of urine immediately following an urgent need to urinate; urinate frequently, usually eight or more times in 24 hours; awaken two or more times in the night to urinate (nocturia).
Causes:
The symptoms of overactive bladder occur in most cases due to the muscles of the bladder involuntarily contract when it's still filling and only about half full. This contraction develops the urgent need to urinate. The urinary sphincter may remain constricted and stop the bladder from emptying. If not, then a person goes through urge incontinence.
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