The Top V. Bladder Issues

Bladder issues are common yet discussed infrequently. You are not alone and should seek treatment when necessary.  

 i. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)                                                                                                     

A UTI is when bacteria enters the urinary tract through the urethra, the tube that connects the bladder to outside the body. UTI’s can cause burning, discomfort and pain. When the bacteria are confined to the urethra and bladder, usually a course of antibiotics along with hydration can resolve the issue. If left untreated, the infection can travel up the ureter (tube that connects the bladder to the kidney’s) and into the kidney and this can result in a very serious infection.

ii. Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI)

Incontinence is a loss of bladder control. It can be provoked by a temporary physical change; for example, when you laugh, sneeze or cough, there is more pressure exerted on the bladder and this can cause leakage. We refer to this type of leakage as stress urinary incontinence (SUI). This is often because the bladder has “dropped” most likely due to past pregnancy or chronic respiratory illnesses which can weaken the pelvic floor muscles over time. Treatment can include pelvic floor exercises to help strengthen these muscles, a pessary which is an intra-vaginal device designed to help support the pelvis floor, laser and radio-frequency procedures to help tighten and rejuvenate tissues in this area, injections to tighten to urethral opening and surgery for lift and support.

 iii. Frequency and Urgency of Urination (Overactive bladder-OAB)

Frequency is usually considered having to go to the bathroom more than eight times during the day and more than once during the night. Urgency us when you have a sudden strong urge to urinate. Caffeine, alcohol and excessive fluid intake can cause this symptom as can pregnancy, diabetes, infection, neurologic diseases and other conditions. Symptoms of frequency and urgency can be very bothersome and anxiety provoking. The first issue is to figure out what is causing these symptoms and then find the appropriate treatment.

iv. Nocturia

If you need to get up several times during the night to use the bathroom then you are suffering from nocturia. It is more common in women over 60. Causes can be as simple as drinking too much too close to bedtime. It can also be the result of other concerns such as sleep disorders, medication, bladder inflammation or infection, diabetes, heart conditions and other issues.

 v. Interstitial Cystitis (IC)

IC is when the lining of the bladder becomes irritated and inflamed. This can cause the bladder to lose its elasticity and become stiff. Often times the presenting symptoms are similar to a UTI but the urine culture does not grow any bacteria. This condition can be quite painful. Certain dietary modifications, medications and bladder instillations can help ease pain caused by IC.

Consult with your physician/provider if you are experiencing bladder issues. Verbena does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and is not a medical provider. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.