If you recently realized that you have a sudden urge to urinate more and more, you’re not alone. Millions of other people in the U.S. have the same symptom, typically caused by Overactive Bladder, or OAB. If you think you may have OAB, you know it causes inconveniences as you often feel you can’t make it to a restroom fast enough. For some, bathroom breaks are frequent, day and night, which is another indication of OAB. This affects quality of life, from sustained sleep to social activities to exercise routines.

OAB — Not a Disease

Overactive Bladder is not a disease but rather the name given to a group of urinary symptoms. Don’t be embarrassed to talk about it with your healthcare professionals. And don’t self-diagnosis yourself, either. If you have concerns, just bring it up to your primary healthcare provider, or give us a call at Urology Experts. As the Urology Care Foundation™ points out, it is important to talk openly about OAB so that something can be done. Don’t wait years to bring it out because there are some good treatments that you should know about.

Incontinence and Stress Urinary Incontinence

For some people, their urine leaks a bit when they feel the urge to use the restroom. This is called incontinence. But if you find yourself leaking urine when laughing, sneezing or while participating in a physical activity, then you may have a problem known as Stress Urinary Incontinence, which is not the same as OAB. Again, bring this to your physician’s attention.

Overactive Bladder Risks

While you may be at a higher risk as you grow older, not all people will experience OAB. Also, while both men and women are at some level of risk for Overactive Bladder, women who have reached menopause may have a higher than normal risk. Men who have had prostate issues may also experience a higher level of risk.

Other high-risk demographics include those with diseases that affect the spinal cord or brain. So if you have multiple sclerosis or have had a stroke you may be in that higher-risk category.

Ask Urology Experts For Help

If you think you or someone you know may be suffering from Overactive Bladder, give us a call at a location near you. Finding an answer may be as easy as examining what you are eating and drinking because products such as artificial sweeteners, caffeine, alcoholic beverages and overly spicy foods may be making your symptoms worse. Together we can explore your symptoms and come up with an effective solution to help bring back a better quality of life. The time to take control of the situation is now!