Health Watch is a Public Service of the Office of News and Publications and is intended to provide general information only and should not replace the advice of a medical professional. You should contact your physician if you have questions about any of these topics.
This week on Healthwatch, we're talking about overactive bladder. Many people who have this problem don't seek treatment because they think it's just a normal part of aging and nothing can be done. But
Dr. Mikio Nihira, a urogynecologist at UT Southwestern Medical Center, says there are a number of treatments available.
The first step in treatment is behavior management. It can be as simple as learning when and how much liquid to drink and avoiding diuretics like caffeine or alcohol. Substances that irritate the bladder, such as alcohol, caffeine, tobacco, spicy foods, carbonated beverages or diet beverages may also increase urinary urgency.
Doctors can teach patients exercises to help them better control their bladders. Biofeedback techniques may help patients know when they're working the right muscles. Setting a schedule for using the restroom also helps patients regain control of their bladders.
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May 2005
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