Bladder dysfunction
Bladder dysfunction (or urinary incontinence) is the leaking of urine that you can't control. It's often an isolating and embarrassing condition that's hard to talk about—but you aren't alone. About 50 percent of women and 25 percent of men have bladder incontinence.
The good news is that it is treatable and you
don’t have to learn to live with it. At The Christ Hospital Health Network, we know
that getting back to enjoying your life is key. That’s why our experienced,
leading-edge physicians offer the most advance treatment at facilities like The
Christ Hospital Pelvic Floor Center,
which is dedicated to helping women reclaim their quality of life.
Women face different types of bladder dysfunction, including:
Functional—a mental or physical problem that prevents a person from getting to a bathroom in time
Overactive bladder—frequent urination and urgency
Overflow—leakage of small amounts of urine because of a full bladder
Stress—leakage of small amounts of urine while coughing, sneezing, exercising or laughing
Temporary—leakage that occurs temporarily because of an infection, illness or medication change
Urge—leakage of large amounts of urine at unexpected times, including during sleep
The experts at The Christ Hospital have the
experience and skill to diagnose and treat so you return to your pursuits.
Bladder dysfunction
causes
Bladder dysfunction can be caused by many different factors. When you meet with your doctor he/she will take a family history and history of your urinary issues to help pinpoint the cause of your bladder dysfunction.
Common causes of bladder dysfunction include:
Bladder irritation
Blocked urethra
Nerve damage or neurological diseases
Overactive bladder (sudden, uncontrollable urge to urinate)
Poor health
Prior bladder or pelvic surgery
Prolapsed bladder (the bladder drops into the vagina)
Side effect of medication
Urinary tract infections
Vaginal childbirth
Weakness of muscles in the bladder and surrounding area
Bladder dysfunction risk factors
Here are some factors that can increase your risk for having bladder dysfunction:
Bladder dysfunction symptoms
Fear of the unknown can
lead women to ignore common symptoms and delay treatment. Your symptoms tell
your doctor what kind of urinary incontinence you may have.
Common symptoms of bladder dysfunction are:
A strong urge to urinate
Burning pain combined with urge to go
Involuntary loss of urine
Leaking urine while asleep
Painful urination
Sudden urges to go to the bathroom
Urinating more often than usual
Waking from sleep to urinate
When to see a doctor
Bladder
dysfunction is very common in women older than 50 years of age and women who
have just given birth.
If you have noticed any of these changes, it's time to make an appointment with your doctor.
Have bladder control problems that have started suddenly
Have involuntary release of urine enough to alter your daily lifestyle
Are avoiding sexual intercourse for fear of leaking urine
Need to lie down to relieve a heavy pressure in your pelvic region
Do
you think you have bladder dysfunction? Discuss your concerns with your gynecologist or
make an appointment with one of our Women’s Health experts.
Do you have more questions about your bladder but not yet ready to make an appointment with a doctor? Contact our ezCare Concierge nurse navigator, a free, confidential service designed to help you navigate the best next steps for you and your health.