Overactive bladder (OAB) is a condition characterized by a frequent and sudden urge to urinate, often accompanied by urinary incontinence (the unintentional loss of urine). OAB can be caused by various factors, including nerve damage, bladder muscle problems, urinary tract infections, and certain medications.
Symptoms of OAB may include:
- the sudden and urgent need to urinate,
- the need to urinate more frequently than usual (8 or more times a day),
- urge incontinence (involuntary leakage of urine).
Treatment options for OAB may include:
- behavioral therapies such as bladder training, pelvic floor exercises, and timed voiding,
- medications to relax the bladder muscles and decrease the urgency to urinate,
- nerve stimulation therapies to regulate bladder function,
- surgery in severe cases.
It’s important to consult a healthcare provider if you experience symptoms of OAB, as they can help determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
