What is Overactive Bladder
Overactive Bladder, or OAB, is a condition that causes sudden and strong urges to urinate throughout the day and night. These urges can lead to frequent trips to the bathroom and can significantly impact your quality of life disrupting daily activities, sleep, and mental health.
You might feel embarrassed or worried about accidents, which can make you want to avoid social situations or limit your activities. It’s important to know that you’re not alone.
Overactive bladder (OAB) is a fairly common condition in the United States. It is estimated that:
- Approximately 46 million Americans over age 40 (about one-third of adults in this age group) report experiencing overactive bladder symptoms at least occasionally.
- OAB affects approximately 16.5% of adults, with prevalence increasing with age.
- It is more common in women than men, but men are still significantly affected, particularly as they age.
What are the Symptoms of Overactive Bladder
The main symptoms of OAB can include:
Urgency
A sudden, strong need to urinate that's difficult to resist.
Frequency
Urinating more often than usual, typically 8 or more times per day.
Urge Incontinence
Leaking urine before you can reach the toilet due to the strong urge.
Stress Incontinence
Leaking urine when you cough, sneeze, laugh, or exercise.
Nocturia
Waking up two or more times during the night to urinate.
Incomplete Emptying
Sensation of not feeling completely empty post urination.
What are Common Bladder Irritants?
Coffee and tea, even without caffeine
Carbonated drinks
Vinegar
Artificial sweeteners
Chocolate
Spicy foods
Tomato-based products
Alcoholic beverages
Apples, citrus fruit, cranberries, strawberries, pineapples, grapes, guava, plums
