Adam Becker, MD; Urology, Deaconess Clinic
Tom Strobel, MSII; Indiana University School of Medicine – Evansville
Nona Mehrnia; Purdue University – West Lafayette
Mark Smith, MS II; Indiana University School of Medicine – Evansville
Do you experience any of the following?
- Frequent urination
- A persistent “urgent feeling” to urinate
- Frequently waking up at night to urinate
- Involuntary loss of urine
If so, then you may have a urinary disorder known as Overactive Bladder (OAB).
OAB is a stressful and embarrassing condition that affects both men and women. Fortunately, doctors today currently have a number of different ways to help you manage your symptoms:
- Lifestyle Modifications — The first option for treatment involves a variety of lifestyle modifications such as weight loss, drinking less alcohol and caffeine, smoking cessation, using absorbent padding, and performing special exercises (Kegel) to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles.
- Medications — If you are unable to control your OAB with lifestyle modifications, there are a variety of medications your doctor may want you to try. The two types of medications used to treat OAB are called antimuscarinics and beta 3 receptor agonists. Although these medicines may be successful in treating some of the symptoms of OAB, some people may struggle to deal with the side effects. Some of the side effects of antimuscarinics are dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, fast heart rate, sleepiness, and altered mental function. Patients with high blood pressure typically are not given beta 3 agonists because this drug may worsen their condition.
- BOTOX® — When the side effects of medication become too much to bear, or when the drugs are not working for you, your doctor may recommend a BOTOX® injection. In this simple procedure, BOTOX® is injected directly into your bladder muscle, which allows it to relax and may help to alleviate some symptoms of OAB.