In the latest episode of Balls Deep, Dr. Joe Pazona and his co-host, Cat Williams, dive into the often-overlooked issue of an overactive bladder (OAB). With humor and expertise, they break down what OAB is, its symptoms, its causes, and potential treatments. Here’s how you can understand overactive bladder, its symptoms, its causes, and possible solutions.
Symptoms of Overactive Bladder
Overactive bladder is characterized by a set of symptoms, including:
Urinary Frequency: Needing to urinate more often than every two hours.
Urinary Urgency: A sudden, strong urge to urinate that’s difficult to control.
Urgency Incontinence: When the urge to urinate is so strong that you can't make it to the bathroom in time.
Nocturia: Waking up multiple times during the night to urinate.
Normal vs. Overactive Bladder
A healthy bladder typically holds about 10-12 ounces (300-400 milliliters) of fluid. When the bladder is full, it sends signals to the brain indicating it’s time to urinate. However, if you’re constantly feeling the need to urinate with smaller amounts of urine, it might indicate an overactive bladder.
Causes of Overactive Bladder
Several factors can contribute to OAB, including:
Fluid Intake: Drinking excessive amounts of fluids, especially those that irritate the bladder like caffeine, alcohol, and acidic or sugary drinks, can lead to increased urination.
Obesity: Extra weight puts pressure on the bladder, increasing the frequency of urination.
Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can irritate the bladder, causing frequent urination.
Sleep Apnea: Interrupted sleep prevents the bladder from fully resting, leading to more frequent urination at night.
Constipation: An overloaded bowel can press on the bladder, reducing its capacity and causing frequent urination.
Practical Solutions
Dr. Pazona emphasizes the importance of monitoring fluid intake and the types of beverages consumed. Conducting a voiding diary can help track the frequency and volume of urination, providing valuable data for diagnosing OAB.
Additionally, addressing underlying conditions such as obesity, diabetes, sleep apnea, and constipation can significantly improve bladder function. Weight loss, dietary changes, managing blood sugar levels, treating sleep apnea, and ensuring regular bowel movements are all effective strategies.
When to See a Urologist
If lifestyle adjustments don’t alleviate symptoms, it's crucial to consult a urologist. Dr. Pazona highlights the importance of a thorough evaluation to rule out other conditions like urinary tract infections (UTIs), bladder stones, or even bladder cancer.
Overactive bladder can be a frustrating condition, but understanding its causes and implementing simple changes can make a significant difference. Don’t suffer in silence; seek professional help if necessary to improve your quality of life.
In the next episode, Dr. Pazona will discuss treatment options for overactive bladder. In the meantime, you can learn more about the urological services offered at Pazona MD.
Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always seek the guidance of your healthcare provider for any medical conditions.
