A weak bladder results in incontinence, leaving the person uncomfortable throughout the day. It is conducive to frequent urination, especially when slight pressure is exerted such as during coughing, sneezing, laughing, etc.
Bladder control issues are daily issues for some, while for others, these problems come and go. Contrary to popular belief, urine leakage or bladder control issues are not problems of old age, but can happen to anybody, at any age.
Millions of people are affected by weak bladder problems across the globe, however, the ratio of women affected is higher. Weak bladder problems lead to urine leakage, which is also called incontinence. Urine leakage caused by a weak bladder is not a disease and is a medical problem that can be treated.
Causes
Bladder weakness can be divided into two categories:
Stress Incontinence: This type of incontinence occurs due to weak bladder muscles in the pelvic region. The function of the pelvic muscles is to hold the bladder in the right place, however, debilitation of these muscles results in the inability of the sphincter to close completely.
This partial closure of the sphincter results in urine leakage through the urethra. These muscles cannot handle extra pressure exerted while coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercising. However, mental stress is not the cause for this kind of incontinence.
Urge Incontinence: The next type of incontinence is urge incontinence, wherein the person first has a strong urge to urinate, followed by urine leak. This condition is caused due to a nerve control abnormality. The nerves located in the bladder wall are supposed to send a message to the brain when the bladder fills.
This tells the brain it's time to urinate and the brain sends motor impulses to urinate. Dysfunctional nerves send these messages more frequently than needed and sends impulses to urinate. However, before the person reaches bathroom, incontinence occurs. Urge incontinence from nerve damage mostly occurs from diabetes, strokes, or other medical conditions.
Urinary tract infection (UTI) like cystitis is also something that causes this condition. Intake of high levels of caffeine can also cause incontinence.
Symptoms
Frequent involuntary urination
Urine leakage on coughing, laughing, sneezing, or exercising
Sensation of pelvic pressure
Stinging sensation while urinating (cystitis)
Small amounts of blood in the urine (cystitis)
Treatment
Although talking about weak bladder problems is not easy for many, it is important to consult a doctor about it. The doctor will prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection. If caffeine is what is causing the irritation and conducing to incontinence, then, you should stop consuming caffeinated beverages.
Alcohol consumption should also be stopped as it acts as a diuretic, and is conducive to frequent urination. Spicy and acidic fruits should also be avoided, to reduce urge continence. Also make sure you have regular bowel movements, as holding bowels can put pressure on the bladder causing it to release urine.
Consumption of adequate amounts of dietary fiber will help have regular bowel movements. Saw palmetto and pumpkin seeds are believed to help alleviate the symptoms.
Weak bladders can cause a lot of discomfort and tension when you are outside the house. How long will you use pads to handle incontinence? Why live with a problem when there's a cure available!
Disclaimer: This story is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.