What is Overactive Bladder?

Overactive bladder (OAB) is a condition characterized by a sudden, frequent urge to urinate that can be difficult to control. It may lead to the involuntary loss of urine, also known as urge incontinence. At Urology Specialists of Georgia, we provide comprehensive care to diagnose and treat OAB, helping patients regain control and improve their quality of life.

Symptoms of Overactive Bladder

• Frequent Urination: Needing to urinate more than eight times in 24 hours.
• Urgent Need to Urinate: A sudden, strong urge to urinate.
• Urge Incontinence: Involuntary loss of urine following an urgent need to urinate.
• Nocturia: Waking up more than once a night to urinate.

Causes of Overactive Bladder

• Neurological Disorders: Conditions like Parkinson’s disease, stroke, and multiple sclerosis.
• Diabetes: High blood sugar can affect bladder function.
• Medications: Certain medications can contribute to OAB symptoms.
• Bladder Abnormalities: Conditions like bladder stones or tumors.
• Hormonal Changes: Menopause can lead to changes in bladder function.
• Urinary Tract Infections: Can cause symptoms similar to OAB.

How is Overactive Bladder Diagnosed?

• Medical History: Review of symptoms and medical history.
• Physical Examination: To check for physical causes of OAB.
• Urine Tests: To detect infections, blood, or other abnormalities.
• Bladder Diary: Tracking urination patterns and symptoms.
• Urodynamic Testing: Measuring the bladder’s ability to hold and release urine.
• Imaging Tests: Ultrasound or cystoscopy to visualize the bladder and urinary tract.

Treatment Options for Overactive Bladder

• Lifestyle Changes: Fluid management, dietary changes, and bladder training.
• Medications: Anticholinergics and beta-3 agonists to relax the bladder muscles.
• Physical Therapy: Pelvic floor exercises to strengthen bladder control.
• Behavioral Therapies: Techniques like timed voiding and double voiding.
• Botox Injections: To relax the bladder muscles and reduce urgency.
• Nerve Stimulation: Sacral neuromodulation (InterStim) for bladder control.
• Surgery: In severe cases, procedures to increase bladder capacity or create a new way for urine to exit the body.

Why Choose Urology Specialists of Georgia for Overactive Bladder Treatment?

• Experienced Specialists: Our team has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating overactive bladder with a patient-centered approach.
• Comprehensive Care: We offer a full spectrum of care, from initial diagnosis to advanced treatments and follow-up support.
• Personalized Treatment Plans: We tailor our treatment plans to meet the specific needs of each patient, ensuring optimal results.
• Advanced Technology: We utilize the latest diagnostic and treatment technologies to provide the best possible care.

I felt completely at ease with the staff at Urology Specialists of Georgia. Their professionalism and compassion made all the difference in my recovery.

– Mary S.

The care I received at Urology Specialists of Georgia was exceptional. The team was knowledgeable and supportive, helping me navigate my treatment options and improving my quality of life.

– John D.