Overactive bladder is caused by involuntary contractions of the bladder muscles. This leads to a constant urgent need to urinate. This can happen even when there is low volume of urine in the bladder. Also known as the irritable bladder or detrusor instability, this syndrome affects at least one in six adults. Often, overactive bladder is caused as a result of a brain or a nerve disorder. Overactive bladder can occur due following a stroke, after a spinal cord injury, due to Parkinson’s disease, or along with multiple sclerosis. It can also be caused due to urine infection or due to bladder stone.
Due to its distressing symptoms, an overactive bladder affects the quality of life to a great extent. It leads to a lot of complications that includes anxiety, emotional distress, interrupted sleep cycles, and sleep disturbances. In extreme cases, depression and sexuality issues can also occur. In case the symptoms of overactive bladder syndrome become very distressing, it is advisable to consult a doctor and take prescribed medications. Along with this, the following tips can help in quick recovery:
Watch what you eat:
The symptoms of overactive bladder are often aggravated by the consumption of certain types of food. When diagnosed with this syndrome, it is best to avoid spicy food especially the ones with curry or hot peppers. Citrus fruits such as oranges, tangerines, and grapefruit and their juices should be avoided. Refrain from eating tomatoes and tomato-based products. Chocolates and cakes should be completely avoided.
Recommended Read: Top 6 Budget Friendly Healthy Foods
Healthy bowel movement:
Extra pressure is exerted on the bladder due to constipation and irregular bowel movements. Overactive bladder symptoms can be alleviated with healthy bowel movements. For this, it is essential to include a lot of fiber in the diet: food such as fresh fruits, beans, bran cereal, and whole wheat bread should regularly be consumed. Regularly drinking prune cocktail can also help to improve bowel movement.
Monitor your weight:
Overweight and obesity can also cause overactive bladder syndrome. It is necessary to maintain a healthy weight to avoid the symptoms of the overactive bladder from becoming severe. This can be done with a regular exercise routine. Daily physical activity can help to maintain a regular bowel movement as well as maintain a healthy weight.
Train your bladder muscles:
Bladder training or bladder drill are a set of techniques to train the bladder muscles to hold urine for a longer period. A doctor can demonstrate how to condition the bladder muscles to get rid of the constant need to empty the bladder. These techniques make the bladder muscles less overactive, and there is more control of the bladder. Involuntary leakages of urine also become less frequent. Pelvic floor exercises are one of the most effective ways of controlling overactive bladder.
Recommended Read: Ways to Keep Your Bladder Healthy
Watch what your drink:
Similar to food, certain beverages can alleviate or aggravate the symptoms of an overactive bladder. Acidic and caffeinated beverages such as aerated drinks and coffee should be consumed in low amounts or avoided completely. Drink plenty of non-irritating fluids such as water daily.
