Key Takeaways:
- Overactive Bladder (OAB) is a common condition that can be caused by various physiological, psychological, lifestyle, and age-related factors.
- There are a variety of treatment options available for OAB, including medication, behavioral therapy, and bladder retraining.
- Individuals experiencing OAB should visit a urologist to receive proper diagnosis and treatment.
What Causes Overactive Bladder? Understanding the Triggers
For anyone suffering from the frequent, sudden, and uncontrollable need to urinate, what causes overactive bladder is of utmost importance. This condition, known as OAB, afflicts a large number of Americans, with some estimates as high as fifty million. Fortunately, with the right treatment, OAB can be effectively managed and even eliminated. To do this, however, one must first identify and understand the cause of their overactive bladder. This article will provide an overview of the various causes of OAB, as well as treatment options available.
Introduction
OAB is defined as “a condition in which the urge to urinate occurs often and uncontrollably.” (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2020). Those suffering from OAB can experience frequent urges throughout the day, sometimes even resulting in accidental leakage. OAB affects people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds, and is an increasingly common medical concern. While there is no universal cause for OAB, certain physiological, psychological, lifestyle, and age-related factors can all increase one’s odds of developing the condition.
Physiological Causes
Injury to the Bladder.
Due to its location in the body and the nature of the activity in which it is involved, the bladder is vulnerable to injury and trauma. Bladder stones, infection, and other conditions can all damage the bladder, resulting in permanent or temporary overactive bladder. In some cases, damage to the pelvic floor muscles, the muscles that support and stabilize the bladder and other pelvic organs, can also contribute to OAB.
Diabetes.
Diabetes can cause nerve damage over time, often leading to potential bladder dysfunction. Through the loss of nerve function, the bladder can become overactive and cause sudden, frequent urges to urinate. In some cases, those who experience nerve damage from diabetes may become incontinent if their OAB is untreated.
Psychological Causes
Stress.
The connection between the mind and body is well-documented and stress can lead to a number of physical symptoms, including OAB. Stress-related OAB is often caused when the body is in a state of fight-or-flight, causing bladder muscles to contract and stiffen. This can cause frequent and urgent urination.
Anxiety.
Much like stress, anxiety can also be an underlying factor of OAB. Persistent anxiety often cause the body to be in an involuntary state of alertness, resulting in involuntary contractions of the bladder. These contractions can lead to OAB over time.
Depression.
Depression is a common mental health disorder and can also be linked to OAB. One possible factor is the decreased production of neurotransmitters in the brain, which can result in a weakened control over the bladder. This can lead to increased frequency of urination and other symptoms of an overactive bladder.
Lifestyle Factors
Alcohol Consumption.
Alcohol consumption can be a contributing factor to OAB. It has a diuretic effect, meaning it can cause the body to rapidly produce more urine. For people with a sensitive bladder, this can lead to OAB. It is important to note, however, that alcohol consumption is only a factor in those who are either alcoholics or have alcohol abuse issues.
Caffeine Intake.
Caffeine is known to act as a stimulant and can increase urine production. Large quantities of caffeine can lead to increased pressure on the bladder and contribute to OAB. For those who are particularly sensitive to caffeine, consuming it in any amount can lead to OAB.
Smoking.
The nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes can irritate the bladder, leading to involuntary contractions and involuntary urination. Smokers are more at risk of developing OAB over time and those who cease smoking often find that their symptoms improve.
Age-Related Causes
Increasing Age.
As people grow older, certain age-related changes can take place in their bodies. For example, aging can decrease the capacity of the bladder, resulting in more frequent trips to the bathroom than in younger individuals. Additionally, physical and neurological changes can lead to weakened bladder muscles and nerve damage, contributing to OAB.
Menopause.
Some women experience an increase in urinary incontinence as they enter menopause. This is due in part to fluctuating levels of estrogen, which can cause the bladder wall to be weakened. Additionally, symptoms of menopause, including night sweats, can increase the amount of fluids in the body, making it more difficult to control bladder functions.
Treatment Options
Medication.
Medication is the most common form of treatment for OAB. Common medications for OAB include anticholinergics, botulinum toxin type A, and beta-3 agonists. These medications work to reduce the urgency and frequency of urination, as well as relax affected bladder muscles.
Behavioral therapy.
Certain bladder-specific exercises can help to strengthen the bladder and improve its functioning. Behavioral therapy is sometimes used in cases of OAB in order to instill new, helpful behaviors in the patient. Some examples of behavioral therapies for OAB include bladder retraining, pelvic muscle exercises, and electrical stimulation.
Bladder retraining.
Bladder retraining is a type of behavioral therapy that focuses on helping a person gain better control of their bladder. This involves gradually increasing the time between bathroom trips, as well as practicing other healthy bladder behaviors and techniques. Over time, this can help to improve OAB symptoms.
Conclusion
In summary, overactive bladder is a common condition that is caused by a variety of different factors. Physiological causes of OAB include injury to the bladder, weakened pelvic floor muscles, and diabetes. Psychological causes of OAB include stress, anxiety, and depression. Lifestyle factors, such as alcohol consumption, caffeine intake, and smoking, can all increase one’s risk of developing OAB. Additionally, age-related causes, such as increasing age and menopause, can contribute to OAB as well. Fortunately, there are a variety of treatment options available, including medication, behavioral therapy, and bladder retraining.
If you are struggling with OAB, it is important to visit a urologist for proper diagnosis and treatment. At St Pete Urology, our team of expert urologists can diagnose and treat OAB, as well as provide a variety of other urology services. Visit our website to learn more about our team and how we can help you.
References:
- “The 5 Best Exercises to Prevent & Treat Female Overactive Bladder.” 14 Feb. 2023, https://www.urologyspecialistsnc.com/female-oab-exercises/.
- “Overactive bladder – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic.” 3 May. 2022, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/overactive-bladder/symptoms-causes/syc-20355715.
- “Overactive Bladder (OAB): Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment.” https://www.urologyhealth.org/urology-a-z/o/overactive-bladder-(oab).
