Overactive bladder (OAB) is a common bladder condition that significantly affects quality of life.1,2 It is common in women aged 55 and older.3
An overactive bladder can be a condition in its own right, caused by increased sensation from small volumes of urine in the bladder.4 This may cause unwanted contractions of the detrusor muscle (smooth muscle fibres that form the wall of the bladder)5 before the bladder is full, leading to a frequent need to urinate.4
But OAB may instead be a symptom of an underlying condition, such as:
Pregnancy, post childbirth, older age, and high body mass index (BMI) are all strongly associated with having an OAB.9,10
OAB is characterised by an urgent and frequent need to urinate.4 Patients will have to rush to the toilet often during the day and will wake up needing to urinate at night.4 These symptoms are often accompanied by urinary incontinence (leaking of urine).4
The symptoms of OAB can be worsened by habits that can irritate the bladder, such as smoking, or drinking caffeine, fizzy drinks or alcohol.4
Did You Know? Urinary incontinence affects one in three South African women.2
There are several different tests that can be used to diagnose an overactive bladder and any potential underlying problems. These include:
Frequency volume chart: A ‘bladder diary’ where the patient records the following for their Health Care Practitioner (HCP):4,1
Physical examination: Over and above a general physical examination, the HCP may examine the pelvic area, vagina and rectum.11
Urinalysis: A urine sample is collected and tested with a dipstick to check for signs of infection.12 This can be done by a primary HCP (doctor or nurse).
Ultrasound: This non-invasive imaging test to scan the bladder using sound waves, can provide a detailed look at what is going on inside the abdomen and bladder.13,14 Ultrasound scans can detect bladder stones, tumours and issues affecting the bladder wall.14
Computed tomography (CT) scan: Another type of non-invasive imaging test, which combines X-rays with computer technology to create three-dimensional images of the bladder.14 CT scans can detect obstructions, infections, cysts, tumours and injuries.14
Cystoscopy: A bladder examination via the urethra, usually done by a urologist using an instrument called a cystoscope.15
Urodynamic testing: A series of tests done by a urologist or trained technician to measure how much urine remains in the bladder after voiding, the urine flow rate/speed and levels of pressure on the bladder as it fills up.16 It can be done in the urologist’s office or at a hospital.16
The symptoms of OAB are distressing to patients, affecting their daily activities, sleep, sexual function and overall mental health.1,2,17 Women who suffer from OAB often experience anxiety, depression and isolation.4,17
There are numerous ways to treat OAB, depending on its cause and severity:
In serious cases of OAB, surgery might be needed.4 Types of surgeries include:
Lifestyle/behavioural changes can help with the symptoms of OAB:
Usually, a combination of therapies works to improve treatment effectiveness and patient quality of life.25 Psychological support, like counselling, is also important for patients dealing with the struggles of OAB.25
*Smooth muscle fibres that form the wall of the bladder.8
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