An overactive bladder (OAB) is a condition in which there is a sudden and urgent need to urinate. Affecting both men and women, the disorder usually affects older individuals and disrupts social life, sleep, and work. There is a wide range of treatments for an overactive bladder. OAB can be managed through certain behavioral changes, medication, or a combination of both.

Bladder training

Instead of visiting the bathroom whenever there is an uncontrollable urge, urinate at a set time. It is called scheduled voiding. Start with a few minutes in the beginning and then increase the set time to an hour or more between bathroom visits.

Pelvic muscle exercises

Performing Kegel exercises daily can strengthen the muscles that help in controlling urination. It is best to consult a doctor or physical therapist to learn how to do Kegel the right way.

Biofeedback

In this method, electrical sensors are attached to the body, which determine actions it performs. The sensors send real-time feedback about some of the body’s most crucial functions, such as heart rate and blood pressure. It even monitors your exercises and other movements so that you can gauge what’s working best for you.

Weight management

If you are struggling with obesity, then losing some bodyweight may relieve certain overactive bladder symptoms.

Incontinence products

These products manage the symptoms of OAB until the actual course of treatment starts to show results. Absorbent pads or pants can prevent embarrassing moments. You can also use handheld urinals or catheters for draining urine.

Medication

Doctors may even prescribe drugs to relieve OAB symptoms. Some drugs prescribed for the condition include tolterodine (Detrol), oxybutynin (Ditropan), trospium, solifenacin (Vesicare), darifenacin (Enablex), fesoterodine (Toviaz), and mirabegron (Myrbetriq).

Surgery

Surgery may be suggested as an option if no lifestyle changes or medications relieve the symptoms. The type of surgery—bladder removal, sling surgery, colposuspension, Botox, and vaginal mesh surgery, among others—depends on the severity of the condition.

Nerve stimulation

This is one of the most effective methods of treatment for an overactive bladder. This procedure invokes minor electric currents to the pelvis and lower back muscles to contract and encourage nerve cells to control the urge to urinate.