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Contents
  • Symptoms and Causes
  • Diagnosis and Initial Treatment
  • Medication Options
  • Advanced Treatments

Urgency Urinary Incontinence: What You Need to Know

Urgency Urinary Incontinence: What You Need to Know

The Basics

Urgency urinary incontinence is a condition where you suddenly feel the need to urinate and may leak urine before reaching the bathroom. It's part of a group of bladder issues called overactive bladder (OAB) syndrome.
Contents
  • Symptoms and Causes
  • Diagnosis and Initial Treatment
  • Medication Options
  • Advanced Treatments

Symptoms and Causes

The main symptom is a sudden, intense urge to urinate that's hard to control. You may also need to go to the bathroom frequently, including at night. While the exact cause isn't always clear, it can be related to nerve issues, bladder muscle problems, or certain medical conditions.

Diagnosis and Initial Treatment

Your doctor will start with a physical exam and may run tests to rule out infections or other issues. Initial treatments often include lifestyle changes like limiting caffeine, losing weight if needed, and doing pelvic floor exercises. These simple steps can make a big difference for many people.
A condition characterized by a sudden, intense urge to urinate, often associated with overactive bladder syndrome. It may involve frequent urination and is linked to nerve issues or bladder muscle problems.

Medication Options

If lifestyle changes aren't enough, medications may help. There are two main types: beta-3 adrenergic agonists and antimuscarinics. Beta-3 agonists are often tried first as they have fewer side effects. Your doctor will work with you to find the best option.

Advanced Treatments

For those who don't respond to medications, there are other options. These include nerve stimulation techniques, Botox injections into the bladder, and in rare cases, surgery. Your doctor can explain which might be right for you.

FAQs

Is urgency incontinence common?

Yes, it affects millions of people, especially women and older adults.

Can urgency incontinence be cured?

Many people see significant improvement with treatment, though a complete cure isn't always possible.

Will I need to take medication forever?

Not necessarily; some people can stop medication after symptoms improve.

Are there any natural remedies?

Pelvic floor exercises and bladder training can be very effective natural approaches.

Can men get urgency incontinence?

Yes, though it's more common in women.

Key Takeaways

Urgency urinary incontinence is treatable, and there are many options available to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Ready to take control of your bladder health? Talk to Doctronic about personalized treatment options for urgency urinary incontinence.
Additional References
  1. Gormley EA, et al. Diagnosis and treatment of overactive bladder (non-neurogenic) in adults: AUA/SUFU guideline amendment. J Urol. 2015;193:1572.
  2. Nambiar AK, et al. EAU Guidelines on Assessment and Nonsurgical Management of Urinary Incontinence. Eur Urol. 2018;73:596-609.
  3. Lightner DJ, et al. Diagnosis and Treatment of Overactive Bladder (Non-Neurogenic) in Adults: AUA/SUFU Guideline Amendment 2019. J Urol. 2019;202:558.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.