Bladder Problems Archives | St Pete Urology Urologists in St. Petersburg, Florida Tue, 09 Sep 2025 18:10:43 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.5 https://stpeteurology.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/cropped-favicon1-32x32.png Bladder Problems Archives | St Pete Urology 32 32 Recognizing and Addressing Bladder Problems https://stpeteurology.com/recognizing-bladder-problems/ Thu, 04 Sep 2025 17:43:31 +0000 https://stpeteurology.com/?p=27758 Discover the warning signs of bladder problems and learn effective treatment options. Expert urological care from St. Pete Urology's board-certified urologists in Florida.

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3 Key Takeaways:

  • Early recognition saves quality of life – Bladder problems affect over 33 million Americans, but prompt identification and treatment can dramatically improve daily functioning and prevent complications.
  • Professional evaluation is essential – While lifestyle changes help, proper diagnosis by board-certified urologists ensures personalized treatment plans that address the root cause of bladder issues.
  • Treatment options are highly effective – Modern urology offers numerous solutions from behavioral modifications to minimally invasive procedures, meaning no one has to suffer in silence.

Bladder problems affect millions of Americans, with studies showing that over 33 million people experience overactive bladder symptoms alone. Despite their prevalence, many individuals suffer in silence due to embarrassment or the mistaken belief that bladder issues are a normal part of aging. At St. Pete Urology, our board-certified specialists understand that recognizing bladder problems early and seeking appropriate treatment can dramatically improve your quality of life.

Whether you’re experiencing frequent urination, urgency, or incontinence, understanding the signs and available treatments is the first step toward reclaiming control over your urological health.

Understanding Common Bladder Problems

Overactive Bladder (OAB)

Overactive bladder represents one of the most common urological conditions, characterized by a sudden, uncontrollable urge to urinate. The condition affects millions of women and men and is not a normal part of aging. According to the International Continence Society, OAB affects performance of daily activities and has an estimated prevalence of 16.5%.

Key symptoms include urinary urgency that’s difficult to control, frequent urination occurring 8 or more times per day, nocturia which involves waking 2 or more times at night to urinate, and urgency incontinence where leaking occurs before reaching the bathroom.

Urinary Incontinence

Urinary incontinence affects your quality of life and can cause other health problems. The condition presents in several forms: stress incontinence causes leaking during physical activities like coughing, sneezing, or exercise, while urge incontinence involves sudden, strong urges followed by involuntary leakage. Mixed incontinence combines both stress and urge symptoms, and overflow incontinence occurs when you’re unable to completely empty the bladder.

Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome

Interstitial cystitis is a chronic condition causing bladder pressure and pain. Most people with interstitial cystitis are diagnosed during their 30s or older, and it can have a long-lasting impact on quality of life.

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

Recurring UTIs can indicate underlying bladder problems. You may have chronic or recurrent bladder infections if you have two or more bladder infections in six months or three or more infections in a year.

Recognizing the Warning Signs

Early Warning Signals

According to Mayo Clinic Health System, most people urinate six to eight times in 24 hours on average. Pay attention to concerning changes in frequency patterns, such as a sudden increase in urination that can’t be explained, especially at night, which can signal a bladder problem or diabetes. Urinating more than 8 times during the day or waking multiple times at night to urinate also warrant attention.

Urgency issues present as a sudden, strong urge to urinate that’s difficult to control, which can indicate a urinary tract infection, urge incontinence or other bladder conditions. This often manifests as fear of not making it to the bathroom in time or rushing to find facilities immediately.

Stream problems include a weak or interrupted urine stream, which could be a symptom of an enlarged prostate in men, along with difficulty starting urination or feeling of incomplete bladder emptying. Pain and discomfort may present as pelvic pain that feels like a dull ache, built-up pressure or sharp, localized pain, burning sensation during urination, or bladder pressure and cramping.

Red Flag Symptoms

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience blood in urine, severe pelvic pain, inability to urinate, fever with urinary symptoms, or sudden onset of incontinence.

Risk Factors and Causes

Age-Related Changes

While bladder problems aren’t inevitable with aging, many older men (30%) and women (40%) struggle with OAB symptoms. The bladder muscle can become less efficient over time, and hormonal changes affect bladder function.

Gender-Specific Factors

Women face unique challenges as pregnancy and childbirth can weaken pelvic floor muscles, menopause reduces estrogen levels affecting bladder tissues, and their shorter urethra increases UTI risk. Men with an enlarged prostate may experience urgency, frequency, and incomplete emptying, while prostate surgery can temporarily affect bladder control and prostate infections can cause irritative symptoms.

Medical Conditions

Several health conditions increase bladder problem risk, including diabetes, neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease, stroke, kidney stones, bladder stones, and tumors.

Lifestyle Factors

Lifestyle factors that contribute to bladder problems include excessive caffeine or alcohol consumption, obesity putting pressure on the bladder, smoking irritating bladder tissues, chronic constipation, and certain medications.

When to See a Urologist

Making the Decision

See a health care professional if you have symptoms of a bladder problem, such as trouble urinating, a loss of bladder control, waking to use the bathroom, pelvic pain, or leaking urine.

Don’t wait if bladder problems interfere with daily activities, cause social embarrassment or isolation, disrupt sleep patterns, lead to skin irritation or infections, or persist despite lifestyle modifications.

What to Expect

At St. Pete Urology, our experienced team provides comprehensive evaluation beginning with a detailed medical history, physical examination, symptom severity assessment, and quality of life impact evaluation. Diagnostic testing includes urinalysis to rule out infections, post-void residual measurement, bladder diary analysis, and specialized testing when indicated.

Our board-certified urologists, including Dr. Reid Graves, Dr. Nicholas Laryngakis, Dr. Adam Oppenheim, and Dr. Ankur Shah, specialize in bladder control problems and provide personalized treatment plans.

Treatment Options and Management

Conservative Approaches

Behavioral modifications form the foundation of treatment and include bladder training to increase capacity, scheduled voiding, fluid management strategies, and dietary modifications that reduce bladder irritants.

Pelvic floor exercises are crucial for improvement. Learn how and why to do Kegels to strengthen supporting muscles. These exercises can significantly improve stress incontinence, urge incontinence, and overall bladder control.

Medical Treatments

Medication options include anticholinergics for overactive bladder, beta-3 agonists for urgency and frequency, topical estrogen for post-menopausal women, and antibiotics for recurrent UTIs. Advanced therapies encompass Botox injections for severe overactivity, nerve stimulation through sacral neuromodulation, and other minimally invasive procedures. The Urology Care Foundation notes that these treatments are particularly effective when conservative approaches haven’t provided sufficient relief.

Surgical Options

When conservative treatments aren’t sufficient, surgical interventions may include sling procedures for stress incontinence, bladder augmentation for severe cases, and artificial sphincter placement.

Prevention Strategies

Daily Habits for Bladder Health

Following these 9 tips to keep your bladder healthy can prevent many problems. Proper hydration management involves drinking adequate fluids (about 6-8 glasses daily), limiting evening fluid intake to reduce nocturia, and avoiding excessive water consumption.

Dietary considerations include reducing caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated beverages, limiting spicy and acidic foods, and maintaining regular bowel habits to prevent constipation. Important lifestyle modifications encompass maintaining healthy weight, not delaying urination unnecessarily, practicing good hygiene, quitting smoking, and exercising regularly.

Special Considerations

Women should practice post-void hygiene by wiping front to back, urinate after sexual activity, consider hormone therapy during menopause, and strengthen pelvic floor muscles. Men benefit from monitoring prostate health with regular check-ups, addressing prostate enlargement early, and maintaining healthy testosterone levels.

Conclusion

Recognizing and addressing bladder problems early is crucial for maintaining your quality of life and overall health. While these conditions are common, they’re not something you have to accept or endure in silence. Modern urology offers numerous effective treatments, from simple behavioral modifications to advanced minimally invasive procedures.

Three key insights emerge from understanding bladder health: bladder problems affect millions but are highly treatable when addressed promptly, early recognition of symptoms leads to better treatment outcomes and improved quality of life, and professional evaluation is essential for proper diagnosis and personalized treatment planning.

At St. Pete Urology, we’re committed to providing compassionate, state-of-the-art care for all urological conditions. Our team combines clinical expertise with advanced technologies to offer the most effective treatments available. Don’t let bladder problems control your life – take the first step toward better urological health by scheduling a consultation with our experienced specialists.

If you’re experiencing any bladder symptoms, contact St. Pete Urology at (727) 478-1172 to schedule an appointment. Our team is here to help you regain control and confidence in your daily life.

This blog post is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment recommendations.

 

 

References:

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]]> 7 Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Bladder https://stpeteurology.com/7-bladder-health-tips/ Tue, 02 Sep 2025 17:43:26 +0000 https://stpeteurology.com/?p=27757 Discover 7 expert healthy bladder tips from St. Pete Urology's board-certified urologists. Learn proper hydration, diet, and habits to maintain optimal bladder health.

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3 Key Takeaways:

  • Proper hydration with 6-8 glasses of water daily helps maintain healthy bladder function while preventing infections and irritation.
  • Regular urination every 3-4 hours and strong pelvic floor muscles through Kegel exercises significantly reduce incontinence risk and improve bladder control.
  • Avoiding bladder irritants like caffeine and alcohol while maintaining a healthy weight creates optimal conditions for long-term urological wellness.
Your bladder works around the clock, storing and releasing urine while you go about your daily life. Maintaining healthy bladder tips becomes essential as this hollow, muscular organ processes about 1.5 quarts of urine daily. Poor bladder health can lead to uncomfortable conditions like urinary incontinence, frequent infections, or overactive bladder symptoms that affect millions of Americans. At St. Pete Urology, our board-certified urologists see firsthand how simple lifestyle changes can dramatically improve bladder function and prevent common urological problems. These seven evidence-based strategies will help you maintain optimal bladder health throughout your life.

Tip 1: Stay Properly Hydrated with Smart Fluid Choices

Proper hydration forms the foundation of bladder health habits. Drinking 6-8 glasses of water daily helps dilute urine and flush bacteria from your urinary system, reducing infection risk while preventing bladder irritation. Why it matters: Concentrated urine from dehydration can irritate bladder tissue and create an environment where harmful bacteria thrive. Conversely, drinking too much too quickly can overwhelm your bladder and trigger urgency. Expert tip from Dr. Nicholas Laryngakis: “I recommend spreading fluid intake throughout the day rather than drinking large amounts at once. This gives your bladder time to fill gradually and empty completely.” Next step: Track your daily water intake for a week, aiming for pale yellow urine as a hydration indicator.

Tip 2: Don’t Hold It In – Listen to Your Body’s Signals

Regularly emptying your bladder prevents muscle weakening and reduces infection risk. The National Institute on Aging recommends urinating at least every 3-4 hours to maintain healthy bladder function. Adults typically urinate 6-7 times per day. Holding urine for extended periods can weaken bladder muscles and create stagnant conditions that promote bacterial growth. Why it matters: When you consistently ignore urination urges, your bladder muscles can lose their ability to contract effectively. This leads to incomplete emptying and increased UTI risk. Decision rule: If you feel the urge to urinate, try to reach a bathroom within 30 minutes rather than waiting until it becomes urgent.

Tip 3: Strengthen Your Pelvic Floor with Targeted Exercises

Pelvic floor exercises improve bladder control and prevent incontinence issues. These muscles support your bladder and help control urine flow. Regular Kegel exercises can reduce stress incontinence episodes by up to 70% in women and significantly improve symptoms in men. How to do Kegels correctly:
  • Contract your pelvic muscles as if stopping urine mid-stream
  • Hold for 5 seconds, then relax for 5 seconds
  • Repeat 10-15 times, three times daily
  • Gradually increase hold time to 10 seconds
Why it matters: Strong pelvic floor muscles provide better bladder support and help prevent leakage during activities like coughing, sneezing, or exercising. Our comprehensive guide on Kegel exercises provides detailed instructions and progression tips for optimal results.

Tip 4: Watch Your Diet – Foods That Help and Harm Bladder Health

Certain foods can irritate your bladder while others promote urinary tract health. Common bladder irritants include caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, citrus fruits, and artificial sweeteners. These substances can trigger overactive bladder symptoms and increase urination frequency. Foods to limit or avoid:
  • Coffee and caffeinated beverages
  • Alcohol and carbonated drinks
  • Spicy foods and hot peppers
  • Citrus fruits and tomato-based products
  • Artificial sweeteners (aspartame, saccharin)
Bladder-friendly foods to embrace:
  • Water-rich vegetables like cucumbers and lettuce
  • Whole grains and fiber-rich foods
  • Lean proteins like fish and poultry
  • Anti-inflammatory foods like blueberries
Why it matters: Studies show that dietary modifications can reduce overactive bladder symptoms by 25-40% in many patients. Next step: Keep a food diary for two weeks, noting which items trigger increased urgency or frequency.

Tip 5: Maintain a Healthy Weight to Reduce Bladder Pressure

Excess weight puts additional pressure on your bladder and pelvic floor muscles. Research indicates that obesity increases stress incontinence risk by 40-60% in women due to increased abdominal pressure on the bladder. Being overweight can lead to:
  • Increased bladder pressure during physical activities
  • Weakened pelvic floor support
  • Higher risk of stress incontinence
  • More frequent urination episodes
Why it matters: Losing just 5-10% of body weight can significantly improve incontinence symptoms and reduce the need for medical interventions. Dr. Adam Oppenheim notes: “Weight management often serves as the first line of treatment for stress incontinence, with many patients experiencing dramatic improvement after modest weight loss.” Decision rule: If your BMI exceeds 25, discuss weight management strategies with your healthcare provider as part of your bladder health plan.

Tip 6: Practice Good Bathroom Habits for Complete Emptying

Proper positioning and timing ensure complete bladder emptying and reduce infection risk. Many people rush through urination or use improper positioning, leading to incomplete emptying and residual urine. Best practices include:
  • Sitting completely on the toilet seat (women)
  • Leaning slightly forward to encourage complete emptying
  • Taking time to fully empty your bladder
  • Avoiding straining or pushing
  • Double voiding if recommended by your doctor
Why it matters: Residual urine creates an environment where bacteria can multiply, increasing UTI risk. Complete bladder emptying reduces infection rates by up to 50%. Next step: Practice relaxation techniques during urination and avoid rushing, especially in public restrooms.

Tip 7: Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol Consumption

Tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption directly harm bladder health. Smoking increases bladder cancer risk by 300% and contributes to chronic cough, which puts additional pressure on the bladder. How smoking affects your bladder:
  • Increases bladder cancer risk significantly
  • Causes chronic cough that stresses pelvic floor
  • Reduces blood flow to bladder tissues
  • Contains toxins that irritate the urinary tract
Alcohol’s impact:
  • Acts as a diuretic, increasing urine production
  • Irritates bladder lining and increases urgency
  • Interferes with normal sleep patterns and nighttime bladder control
Why it matters: Smoking cessation programs show that bladder symptoms often improve within 6-12 months of quitting tobacco use. Decision rule: If you smoke or drink heavily, discuss cessation strategies with our experienced urological team who can provide specialized guidance for urological health.

When to Consult a Urologist

While these preventive measures help maintain bladder health, certain symptoms warrant professional evaluation. Contact St. Pete Urology if you experience:
  • Persistent urinary incontinence or leakage
  • Frequent, urgent needs to urinate
  • Pain or burning during urination
  • Blood in your urine
  • Difficulty starting or stopping urination
  • Recurring urinary tract infections
Our team of board-certified urologists – Dr. Reid Graves, Dr. Nicholas Laryngakis, Dr. Adam Oppenheim, and Dr. Ankur Shah – specializes in comprehensive urological care using the latest minimally invasive techniques. Key takeaway: Implementing these seven healthy bladder tips can significantly reduce your risk of urological problems while improving overall quality of life. Start with one or two changes and gradually incorporate all recommendations for optimal bladder health. Bottom line: Your bladder health impacts every aspect of daily life. These evidence-based strategies, combined with regular urological check-ups, provide the foundation for lifelong urinary wellness. When in doubt, our experienced team at St. Pete Urology stands ready to help you achieve optimal bladder health.  
 

References:

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]]> Is Your Bladder Healthy? Key Signs to Look Out For https://stpeteurology.com/is-your-bladder-healthy-key-signs-to-look-out-for/ Mon, 06 Nov 2023 07:23:13 +0000 https://stpeteurology.com/?p=14806 Recognizing the key signs of a healthy bladder is important to monitor its condition and seek medical advice when necessary.

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3 Key Takeaways:

  • Recognizing the key signs of a healthy bladder is important to monitor its condition and seek medical advice when necessary.
  • Common bladder health issues, such as UTIs and overactive bladder, can significantly impede bladder function.
  • Good bladder health can be maintained through adequate hydration, proper toilet habits, dietary considerations, regular exercise, and stress management.

Experience Luxury: What Sets Our Dunedin Salon ApartJust as the brain regulates your thoughts and your heart keeps your blood pumping, your bladder plays an equally important role in your overall well-being. But how often do you pause to consider the state of your bladder health? This article aims to help you understand the key signs of a healthy bladder, allowing you to monitor its condition and seek necessary medical advice.

Understanding the Bladder: The Lead Character in a Silent Drama

Your bladder, a muscular sac located in your pelvis, serves as a storage unit for urine. It is an overlooked hero functioning flawlessly most of the time, but common bladder health issues, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) and overactive bladder, can significantly impede its operation.

Key Signs of a Healthy Bladder: The Evidence You Need

  • Consistent and Normal Urination: Normal urination involves emptying the bladder every three to four hours without urgency or difficulty in starting or stopping the flow.
  • Sufficient and Adequate Urine Output: A healthy bladder produces a reasonable amount of urine — usually clear or pale yellow — during each trip to the bathroom.
  • Absence of Pain or Discomfort: Any pain, burning sensation during urination, or discomfort in the pelvic region can indicate an issue with your bladder health.
  • Regular and Normal Sleep Patterns: A healthy bladder allows uninterrupted sleep for a reasonable duration, without the constant need to urinate.
  • Healthy Bowel Function: Regular and normal bowel movements, without constipation or other digestive issues, also signify a healthy bladder.

Common Bladder Health Problems: The Challenges You May Encounter

  • Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Watch out for symptoms like a strong urge to urinate, a burning sensation during urination, or cloudy urine. Preventive measures and appropriate treatments can help manage UTIs.
  • Overactive Bladder: Overactive bladder is marked by an urgent and frequent need to urinate. Effective management techniques and lifestyle changes can alleviate these symptoms.
  • Urinary Incontinence: There are different types of urinary incontinence. By knowing the signs and prevention tips, you can effectively manage this condition.

Maintaining a Healthy Bladder: Your Role in the Drama

  • Hydrate! Drinking enough water helps dilute the urine, reducing the risk of bladder problems.
  • Proper toilet habits: Avoid holding urine for too long and ensure that you empty your bladder completely.
  • Dietary Considerations: Certain foods and beverages can impact bladder health. Knowing what they are and moderating consumption can help.
  • Regular Exercise: Physical activity can aid bladder function, reducing the risk of incontinence.
  • Stress Management: Reducing stress can also lead to better bladder health.

Conclusion: The Finale of Your Bladder’s Performance

Recognizing the key signs of a healthy bladder is crucial. It’s essential to pay attention to your bladder health and seek medical advice if you experience any bladder-related concerns. St Pete Urology, a reputed urology practice in St. Petersburg, FL, is ready and willing to assist. Their team of experienced urologists is committed to working with you to ensure optimal bladder health. So, take note, take charge, and never underestimate the importance of your bladder health.

References:

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]]> Addressing Overactive Bladder in Men and Women with St. Pete Urology https://stpeteurology.com/addressing-overactive-bladder-in-men-and-women-with-st-pete-urology/ Fri, 04 Aug 2023 07:05:10 +0000 https://stpeteurology.com/?p=14274 Key Takeaways: Overactive bladder is a common condition affecting both men and women. There is a stigma surrounding overactive bladder that deters individuals from seeking treatment. St. Pete Urology is a medical practice that offers treatments to alleviate the discomfort of overactive bladder and improve patients’ quality of life. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-WXDtJMNhqo Understanding the Overactive Bladder Predicament […]

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Key Takeaways:

  1. Overactive bladder is a common condition affecting both men and women.
  2. There is a stigma surrounding overactive bladder that deters individuals from seeking treatment.
  3. St. Pete Urology is a medical practice that offers treatments to alleviate the discomfort of overactive bladder and improve patients’ quality of life.

Understanding the Overactive Bladder Predicament

Consider this: Your plans, whether you’re attending social gatherings or even mundane tasks such as grocery shopping, are dictated by the proximity of a restroom. An overactive bladder, a common condition affecting both sexes, has made you its hostage. As summarized by Dr. Nicholas Laryngakis, a board-certified Urologist with St. Pete Urology in St. Petersburg, FL, “the bladder becomes more sensitive and reflexive as we age, leading to some people having a lot of frequency and urgency and even leakage of urine called incontinence.” This not only hampers your physical comfort but also drastically alters your quality of life.

Men and Women: Equally Affected

This condition is not exclusive to women, as is often mistakenly assumed. Men too are victims of it. This false narrative that “women are the only ones that lose bladder control as they age” needs to be rectified. Men may need to undergo further evaluations to ensure that a prostate issue isn’t at the root of their condition.

The Stigma Around Overactive Bladder

This is a condition that often stays unaddressed due to the sensitivity and stigma surrounding it. Many people live in discomfort, limited by their ailment as they are deterred from seeking treatment. According to Dr. Laryngakis, “A lot of people are concerned and it is a sensitive area so they don’t always seek treatment…”. What is crucial in this context is the creation of a safe and confidential environment that allows individuals to comfortably discuss their predicament.

How St. Pete Urology Can Help

At St. Pete Urology, a compassionate team of professionals led by a board-certified Urologist, Dr. Laryngakis, works tirelessly to help patients regain control of their lives. The medical team prides itself on having open and confidential conversations with patients, aiming to soothe their apprehensions and create a space where they can freely express their concerns.

In the quest of addressing overactive bladder, you’re no longer alone. With an array of treatments available, St. Pete Urology aims to alleviate your discomfort, ensuring that you no longer feel the need for constant reassurance like the use of a pad or diaper.

St. Pete Urology, based in St. Petersburg, FL, is not just a medical practice. They are your allies in combating the challenges that come with an overactive bladder. In their efforts to improve patients’ quality of life, they strive to create an environment where patients feel comfortable discussing their intimate medical issues. So, break free from the burden of an overactive bladder and regain the freedom to live your life fully. Reach out to St. Pete Urology today — your journey towards a healthier, happier, and more confident you begins here.

References:

  1. St Pete Urology. (2013, March 28). An Overactive Bladder Overview | St Pete Urology. St Pete Urology. https://stpeteurology.com/what-is-overactive-bladder/
  2. Elad Leron, Weintraub, A. Y., Salvatore Andrea Mastrolia, & Schwarzman, P. (2018). Overactive Bladder Syndrome: Evaluation and Management. 11(3), 117–125. https://doi.org/10.1159/000447205
  3. Overactive bladder – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic. (2022). Mayoclinic.org; https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/overactive-bladder/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20355721
  4. Overactive Bladder. (2016). Medlineplus.gov; National Library of Medicine. https://medlineplus.gov/overactivebladder.html

Transcription:

Hi, I’m Dr. Nicholas Laryngakis, board certified urologist with St. Pete Urology. Inflammatory bladder is a very common disease process that occurs to both men and women. So as we age, often the bladder becomes more sensitive and reflexive, leading to some people having a lot of frequency and urgency and even leakage of urine called incontinence. And that really affects their quality of life because they’re always having to go to the bathroom and don’t feel comfortable going out into the world without some sort of reassurance such as a pad or a diaper even unfortunately in some people. So there is a lot of treatments we have to help patients with that. A lot of people are concerned and it is a sensitive area so they don’t always seek treatment but here at St. Pete Urology, we’re very open with patients, we have confidential conversations and try to help them with these kind of problems. That women are the only ones that lose bladder control as they age but it can occur in men. Often men have to be evaluated a little further to make sure it’s not a prostate issue.

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]]> What is normal urinary bowel control? https://stpeteurology.com/what-is-normal-urinary-bowel-control/ https://stpeteurology.com/what-is-normal-urinary-bowel-control/#respond Wed, 08 Jun 2022 14:16:30 +0000 https://stpeteurology.com/?p=13218 Dr. Nicholas Laryngakis talks about bowel and bladder control in regards to what is normal and what isn't. Learn more here.

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Tonight we’re going to talk about bowel and bladder control primarily, so Dr. Graves and I both actually trained together at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. And we’ve been each practicing for close to ten years and we’ve had five years of urology training in residency and med school before that. And the topic tonight is something that we do have a lot of focus in and enjoy taking care of and have specialty in.

So what’s normal and what isn’t in regards to urinary bowel control so it’s you know aging does affect urination it is true you’ll pee more frequently an occasional accident can happen but it’s not completely normal and there could be underlying causes that could lead to loss of control so patients who are planning their life around the bathroom and thinking about where the nearest bathroom is before they leave you know they’re thinking about where they’re going which restaurant am i going to where’s that bathroom how long is my car ride where can i stop where’s that gas station do i need to wear a pad when i’m outside the house what can i eat or drink that is starting to tell you that there could be a significant issue because it is affecting the quality of your life obviously if you’re drinking a lot of fluid and you have to go a little more frequently that’s normal but if you’re losing control or have the constant fear that you’re not going to make it in time or actually having accidents that’s something that should be evaluated and can be fixed.

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]]> https://stpeteurology.com/what-is-normal-urinary-bowel-control/feed/ 0 Why Do I Pee So Much https://stpeteurology.com/why-do-i-pee-so-much/ https://stpeteurology.com/why-do-i-pee-so-much/#respond Wed, 12 Jan 2022 14:59:33 +0000 https://stpeteurology.com/?p=12949 Key takeaways The frequency of peeing can be used to monitor overall health and anticipate certain problems. A regular peeing rate and volume occur when a person is well-hydrated and there is no undue pressure on the pelvic floor, bladder, and kidneys. A normal range is 5-8 voids in 24 hours and no more than […]

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Key takeaways

  • The frequency of peeing can be used to monitor overall health and anticipate certain problems. A regular peeing rate and volume occur when a person is well-hydrated and there is no undue pressure on the pelvic floor, bladder, and kidneys. A normal range is 5-8 voids in 24 hours and no more than twice at night if over 60 years old.
  • Nocturia, or frequently peeing at night, can be caused by decreased production of anti-diuretic hormone (ADH) with age or a lack of production in children. It can also be caused by drinking too much water, taking diuretic medications, untreated diabetes, urinary tract infections, or an overactive bladder.
  • It is important to speak with a medical professional if experiencing frequent or urgent peeing as it can be a symptom of underlying health issues.

Peeing can be an inconvenience when it gets more frequent and urgent.

The good news is that you can use your frequency of peeing to monitor how your body works. You can use it to assess your overall health and anticipate certain problems.

What is considered normal when it comes to peeing?

A regular peeing rate and volume occur when you are well-hydrated. There is no undue pressure on your pelvic floor, bladder, and kidneys. It means that you can anticipate when and how frequently you visit the bathroom.

When healthy, a good peeing range is 5-8 voids in 24 hours. At night, you shouldn’t wake up more than twice to pee if you are over 60 years old. When you pee more than eight times in 24 hours, that could mean that you have an overactive bladder.

The amount of urine you pass depends on how much fluid you drink, how big your bladder is, and how much urine your body produces.

Your body makes roughly 3 liters of urine each day. If you have a normal, healthy bladder,  you can hold 300-400 ml of urine (approximately 2 cups). The urge to pee should generally start when your bladder has 150ml of urine (just over half a cup).

What is nocturia?

Peeing frequently at night is called nocturia. It means you have to wake up more than once a night to go to the bathroom.

The body usually produces more anti-diuretic hormone (ADH) at night, which prevents your kidneys from filtering and releasing water until you wake up. With normal ADH, you shouldn’t have to struggle to hold urine through your sleep.

However, ADH production decreases with age. That is why older adults are at higher risk of nocturia than younger adults.

ADH takes more time to be produced in children. That is why children below six years tend to wear diapers at night because they can’t hold pee overnight.

What causes peeing too much?

  1. Drinking too much water

The more fluid you drink, the more urine you make, and the more frequently you need to pee. You can tell if you are drinking enough by checking the color of your urine. If your pee is light yellow to clear, then you’re taking in enough fluid.

But if your pee is always clear and you spend a lot longer in the bathroom, then you are probably drinking too much. Though drinking too much fluid isn’t dangerous, you can ease the amount to reduce your visits to the toilet.

  1. Accidental or therapeutic use of diuretics

Diuretic medications help your body to get rid of excess fluid. The drugs work by prompting the kidney to be more permeable to sodium. This allows more sodium in the urine, which draws more water out of the blood into urine, lowering your blood pressure.

Diuretics are used as medications for high blood pressure. You should expect to pass urine a lot more when on these medications.

Drinks such as coffee, tea, and soda can act as diuretics, increasing your peeing frequency.

  1. Untreated diabetes

Untreated diabetes means a continually high level of glucose in your blood. Since your kidneys can’t handle the re-absorption of this extra glucose, it is excreted in the urine.

The presence of glucose in your urine draws additional fluids along with the glucose, resulting in an increased peeing rate. And as you lose more fluids, your body becomes dehydrated, and you feel thirstier than usual. You will end up drinking and peeing a lot more.

  1. Urinary tract infections

Urinary tract infections occur when bacteria enter via the urethra and multiply anywhere in your urinary tract. As the bacteria multiply, usually in the bladder, inflammation, and irritation increase the urge to pee.

In some cases, the bladder can become inflamed without an infection. This type of inflammation results in a chronic condition called interstitial cystitis or painful bladder syndrome, which is more common in women.

  1. Overactive bladder

Characterized by a sudden urge to pee that you can’t control, an overactive bladder occurs when signals from the brain fail, causing bladder muscles to want to squeeze out urine when it isn’t full.

This condition is an urge-related form of urinary incontinence, wherein suddenly you feel the need to pee, but not much comes out.

Overactive bladder is more common in people with neurological disorders, such as multiple sclerosis, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, dementia, or a bladder abnormality like bladder tumor.

These diseases tend to cause damage to the nerves that tell the bladder muscles when to contract.

  1. Urinary incontinence

Urinary incontinence is a condition where muscles that close off the urethra become weak, causing stress-inducing urinary leakage. The leaks may occur when you’re sneezing, coughing, or during strenuous exercise.

Incontinence may be due to pregnancy and childbirth, which weaken pelvic floor muscles.

Additionally, lower estrogen levels after menopause can also cause tissues to deteriorate in the urinary tract, resulting in incontinence.

  1. An enlarged prostate

For men with an enlarged prostate, there may be a constant feeling of needing to pee.

The growing prostate puts pressure on the urethra. It blocks the flow of urine, making the bladder work harder to expel the urine. The leftover urine can become a breeding ground for bacteria and lead to inflammation, further messing with the bladder.

  1. Pregnancy

When pregnant, blood volume increases, and the kidneys have to work through the excess fluid. This means that more fluid ends up in the bladder, and you can pee too much.

Increased frequency of peeing starts in the first trimester and gets worse in the subsequent trimesters.

What are the solutions to frequent peeing?

Frequent peeing can be reduced by cutting out bladder irritants from the diet. You can do so by avoiding alcohol, caffeine, artificial sweeteners, citrus, and spicy foods.

You should also quit smoking and lose weight. And drink most of your fluids earlier in the day to avoid trouble at night.

Peeing too much can be treated using medications. You can take medications that relax the bladder and its nearby muscles, such as antidepressants imipramine (Tofranil) and duloxetine (Cymbalta).

You can also get a Botox injection into your bladder. This will give temporary relief by paralyzing the muscles and blocking the chemical messenger acetylcholine, which sends signals to your brain to trigger abnormal bladder contractions associated with an overactive bladder.

Anti-cholinergic drugs, such as Oxybutynin, also block acetylcholine.

Pelvic floor physiotherapy is also ideal for stress-related incontinence, like pregnancy-linked incontinence.

But when incontinence occurs after menopause, estrogen creams may help by restoring the tissues near the urinary tract.

Bladder training is effective in controlling frequent peeing. It involves trying to go longer and longer without peeing over time.

For instance, if you go every hour, you can extend that time by 10 minutes for some days. Then keep adding on 10 minutes until you find yourself holding your pee for a longer period.

Safe, effective treatment of urinary incontinence

If you are peeing too much, you should see a urologist to determine the cause and degree of incontinence you have.

At St Pete Urology, we’ve helped many patients recover from leaky bladders through our tailored treatments.

Our solutions include behavioral therapies, pelvic muscle rehabilitation, incontinence devices, medication, Botox injections, and surgery. Our doctors have vast experience in diagnosing urinary incontinence and in providing the most appropriate treatments.

References

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]]> https://stpeteurology.com/why-do-i-pee-so-much/feed/ 0 Signs of Bladder Problems https://stpeteurology.com/signs-of-bladder-problems/ https://stpeteurology.com/signs-of-bladder-problems/#respond Wed, 26 Feb 2020 14:37:33 +0000 https://stpeteurology.com/?p=9754 Bladder problems are very common and can range from mild issues like a urinary tract infection to life-threatening conditions such as bladder cancer. It is important to be aware of your bladder health and symptoms that can indicate a problem so you can seek prompt medical treatment when needed. Problems With Urination Urinary incontinence and […]

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Bladder problems are very common and can range from mild issues like a urinary tract infection to life-threatening conditions such as bladder cancer. It is important to be aware of your bladder health and symptoms that can indicate a problem so you can seek prompt medical treatment when needed.

Problems With Urination

Urinary incontinence and urinary tract infections, or UTIs, are both common problems that affect millions of people every year.

If you experience leaking urine during activities like coughing, laughing or bending over; if you feel sudden, strong urges to go to the bathroom but do not always make it in time; or if you wet the bed at night, you may be suffering from a bladder issue causing urinary incontinence. It is important to discuss these symptoms with your doctor, who can help find solutions so you enjoy a better quality of life.

If you are experiencing a burning sensation during urination, a frequent urge to go, cloudy urine or a fever, you might have a UTI. A physician can determine the best route to deal with it, most likely involving antibiotics, to clear up the infection before it can spread to the kidneys and become more serious.

Pain In The Bladder

If you have been experiencing issues with the urinary tract for more than six weeks without signs of an infection, and if there is also pain and a feeling of pressure in the bladder area, you might be dealing with interstitial cystitis. This is a chronic health condition that can range from mild to severe. Every case of IC is different, so your doctor will work closely with you to reach a diagnosis and determine a treatment plan.

Warning Signs Of Bladder Cancer

The first sign of bladder cancer is usually blood in the urine, also known as hematuria. Sometimes the blood is not visible and will only be noticeable during urinalysis performed as part of a physical exam. Other times, enough blood may be visible to tint the urine pink, orange or dark red. Blood in the urine also can be a symptom of other serious issues such as kidney stones or an infection.

Other signs of bladder cancer can include indications of less severe bladder problems, such a frequent urge to go, a burning sensation during urination, or difficulty relieving yourself. Symptoms of more advanced bladder cancer include an inability to urinate, lower back pain, swollen feet or bone pain.

Whenever you experience new symptoms or difficulties with your urinary system, it is important to contact your doctor as soon as possible. The urologists at St Pete Urology are here to help with bladder problems of all kinds so you can live your happiest, healthiest life. For more information, visit the St Pete Urology website.

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]]> https://stpeteurology.com/signs-of-bladder-problems/feed/ 0 Artificial Sphincter for Male Incontinence https://stpeteurology.com/artificial-sphincter-male-incontinence/ https://stpeteurology.com/artificial-sphincter-male-incontinence/#respond Mon, 19 Aug 2013 06:54:39 +0000 http://draft.stpeteurology.com/?p=4148 Male incontinence is rarely life-threatening, but it often hampers a normal lifestyle. It may result in damp undergarments, skin rashes, skin irritation, limited physical activity, reduced social contacts and relationships, and even male impotence or diminished interest in sex. The urologists at St Pete Urology can prescribe one of many different treatments for male incontinence, […]

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Male incontinence is rarely life-threatening, but it often hampers a normal lifestyle. It may result in damp undergarments, skin rashes, skin irritation, limited physical activity, reduced social contacts and relationships, and even male impotence or diminished interest in sex. The urologists at St Pete Urology can prescribe one of many different treatments for male incontinence, including medications, biofeedback techniques and exercise programs. However, for patients who do not respond to these treatments, the surgical implantation of an artificial sphincter is the best option. Urologists will carefully evaluate the patient before recommending an artificial sphincter. [Read Full Article…]

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]]> https://stpeteurology.com/artificial-sphincter-male-incontinence/feed/ 0 Common Causes of Testoterone Deficiency https://stpeteurology.com/common-testoterone-deficiency/ https://stpeteurology.com/common-testoterone-deficiency/#respond Mon, 05 Aug 2013 06:57:22 +0000 http://draft.stpeteurology.com/?p=4036 Testosterone deficiency affects male sexuality adversely because of the important roles that androgenic hormones play in the body. For instance, normal levels of testosterone help in maintaining a healthy mood, sexual desire, fertility and normal energy levels. Depending on age, low testosterone levels can lead to male impotence, bone and muscle development abnormalities and underdeveloped […]

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Testosterone deficiency affects male sexuality adversely because of the important roles that androgenic hormones play in the body. For instance, normal levels of testosterone help in maintaining a healthy mood, sexual desire, fertility and normal energy levels. Depending on age, low testosterone levels can lead to male impotence, bone and muscle development abnormalities and underdeveloped genitalia. Testosterone deficiency has been reported in alarmingly high numbers of males. In the United States alone, over 13 million men experience testosterone deficiency, but less than 10% of these men receive treatment for the disorder. Many studies have revealed that diabetes, hypertension and obesity increase the risk of testosterone deficiency in men. [Read Full Article…]

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