7 July 2016
Steps To Control A Bladder Problem
Bladder control problems aren’t something people like to talk about, but many people have
them. Millions of adults have an overactive bladder (OAB). Many of them also deal with incontinence - the loss of bladder control that leads to leaking.
Symptoms of an overactive bladder include an urgent feeling to go to the toilet, going to the toilet frequently and sometimes leaking urine before you can get to the toilet (urge incontinence). Treatment with bladder training often can cure the problem or take a look at our managing your incontinence tips.
Take back control with these 8 steps:
1. Take note
Keep a diary of how often you’re going to the bathroom and everything you’re eating and drinking. Record what time of day you go the most. This information will help you and your doctor get a better picture of what’s going on.
2. Watch your water
Too much water can make bladder problems worse. But drinking too little can dehydrate you, and that can irritate your bladder. You need to find the right amount for you. It’s different for everyone, but most people need about 6 – 8 glasses of water a day.
3. Retrain your bladder
Bladder retraining involves learning to ‘hold on’ longer and longer. Pick a set amount of time to wait between bathroom trips, and then gradually increase it. Slowly, your bladder can learn to hold more urine.
4. Drop a few pounds
Carrying extra weight puts added pressure on your bladder. Losing weight eases the load on your bladder and the muscles surrounding it.
5. Exercises may help you
Pelvic floor exercises can help strength your pelvic floor and can help you hold pee in your bladder longer. Click here to take look at how easy they are to do and we recommend you do them daily. Alternatively you can purchase an IncoStress – an incontinence aid that is medically designed to strengthen pelvic floor muscles.
6. Avoid triggers
Some foods and drinks can make bladder control problems worse. Caffeine, carbonated drinks, and spicy foods can increase leaking for some people. Alcohol can make you pee too much, and smoking can also trigger the urge to go.
7. Check what medications you take
If you are on medication for other conditions, check with your doctor to see if bladder control problems may be a side effect. Some drugs, including over-the-counter allergy medications, muscle relaxants, and diuretics, can cause leaking.
8. Talk with your doctor about medications to help your OAB
If nothing else is working, your doctor might prescribe a medication. But they can have side effects like dry mouth, constipation, or blurred vision. You’ll have to decide if the benefits are worth it for you.
Botox may also be an option for you. It’s approved as a treatment for bladder control problems. Your doctor injects it straight into your bladder muscle. The procedure only takes a few minutes and helps to control symptoms for about 6-12 months.
In some cases, bladder control problems are treated with surgery, but this is rare. Talk to your doctor to learn more.
Please visit Incontinence UK for all your incontinence needs including incontinence products from leading brands such as TENA, Lille and Age UK.
Best Wishes
Incontinence UK Team
www.incontinenceuk.co.uk 
