Overactive Bladder

Overactive Bladder Treatment in Dubai at Emirates Hospitals Group. We are dedicated to providing exceptional urological care with the best urologists in Dubai. Our specialists are adept at diagnosing and treating a range of urological conditions, including overactive bladder (OAB). Overactive bladder is a condition that affects many individuals, causing significant discomfort and disruption to daily life. With our advanced diagnostic tools and personalized treatment approaches, we aim to manage OAB effectively and improve our patients’ quality of life.

• About Overactive Bladder
• Causes & Symptoms
• Treatment

About Overactive Bladder

Overactive bladder (OAB) is a condition characterized by a frequent and urgent need to urinate, often accompanied by involuntary leakage of urine (urge incontinence). The condition is more common in older adults but can affect people of all ages. OAB can significantly impact an individual’s social and emotional well-being, leading to distress, anxiety, and a decreased quality of life.

People with OAB experience a sudden and compelling urge to urinate that is difficult to control. This urge can occur frequently throughout the day and night, often leading to frequent trips to the bathroom and disrupted sleep patterns. While OAB itself is not usually a serious health threat, the symptoms can be very disruptive and may require medical intervention.

Causes & Symptoms of Overactive Bladder

Causes
The exact cause of overactive bladder is not always clear, but several factors may contribute to its development:

1. Muscle Overactivity:
   OAB often results from the overactivity of the detrusor muscle, which is responsible for bladder contraction. This muscle may contract involuntarily, causing the sudden urge to urinate.
2. Neurological Disorders:
   Conditions affecting the nervous system, such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, or stroke, can interfere with the signals between the bladder and the brain, leading to OAB symptoms.
3. Aging:
   As people age, the bladder’s capacity and ability to hold urine may decrease, contributing to OAB. Aging may also affect the nervous system and bladder muscle function.
4. Bladder Irritants:
   Certain substances like caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods can irritate the bladder and exacerbate symptoms of OAB.
5. Hormonal Changes:
   Hormonal changes, particularly in women during menopause, can affect bladder function and contribute to OAB symptoms.
6. Infections:
   Urinary tract infections (UTIs) or inflammation of the bladder can temporarily mimic or worsen OAB symptoms.

Symptoms
The primary symptoms of overactive bladder include:

• Frequent Urination:
  An increased need to urinate more than eight times a day.
• Urgency:
  A sudden and strong urge to urinate that is difficult to defer.
• Urge Incontinence:
  Involuntary leakage of urine that occurs when the urge to urinate is not controlled in time.
• Nocturia:
  Waking up multiple times during the night to urinate.
• Difficulty Emptying the Bladder Completely:
  Feeling as though the bladder is not fully emptied after urination.

Treatment for Overactive Bladder

At Emirates Hospitals Group, our urologists employ a comprehensive approach to treating overactive bladder. Treatment plans are tailored to the individual, based on the severity of symptoms and underlying causes. Options include:

1. Lifestyle Modifications:
   Making changes in daily habits can help manage OAB symptoms. This may include reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, avoiding bladder irritants, and establishing a regular toileting schedule.
2. Behavioral Therapies:
   Techniques such as bladder training and pelvic floor exercises (Kegel exercises) can help strengthen the bladder muscles and improve control over urination. Bladder training involves gradually increasing the time between bathroom visits to build bladder capacity.
3. Medications:
   Various medications can help control the symptoms of OAB by relaxing the bladder muscle or reducing bladder contractions. Anticholinergic drugs and beta-3 agonists are commonly prescribed. Your urologist will determine the most appropriate medication based on individual needs and potential side effects.
4. Physical Therapy:
   Pelvic floor physical therapy may be recommended to improve muscle strength and coordination. This therapy can help manage symptoms and improve bladder control.
5. Neuromodulation Therapy:
   For cases where other treatments are ineffective, neuromodulation therapy may be considered. This involves the use of electrical stimulation to modulate nerve activity and reduce symptoms of OAB.
6. Surgical Options:
   In rare cases, when other treatments fail, surgical options such as bladder augmentation or neuromodulation implants may be explored. These procedures aim to enhance bladder function or reduce involuntary contractions.

Our urologists are dedicated to working closely with patients to identify the most effective treatment plan and to provide ongoing support throughout the process.