Drink more, not less, for OAB

During the heat of summer, it is important to stay hydrated. But for those with an overactive bladder (OAB), it may be tempting to skip the eight glasses of water in hopes of keeping trips to the bathroom to a minimum.

But, in fact, limiting fluid intake can cause distress on the bladder and worsen OAB symptoms in addition to causing health problems related to dehydration.

The symptoms of an overactive bladder (OAB) –feeling an urgency to urinate frequently — are quite common. Studies show that about 33 million Americans suffer from the disorder.

Symptoms include:

– An uncontrollable need to urinate;

– Frequent urination during the day as well as at night;

– The leakage of urine with the patient can’t reach the bathroom in time.

But you don’t have to suffer in silence. A visit to a urologist can provide a variety of possible treatments. Your doctor can evaluate your condition and help you determine if lifestyle changes or a medical treatment would be the best course of action.

Many OAB sufferers can help control the condition by making some simple lifestyle changes such as dietary adjustments, including cutting down on bladder irritants like caffeinated drinks, alcohol, chocolate, tomatoes, citrus and spicy foods. Eating a diet high in fiber can minimize constipation, which aggravates OAB. Women with OAB may also experience improvement after performing pelvic floor exercises.

If OAB symptoms fail to improve with dietary changes or exercise, treatment options can include medication, Botox injections into the bladder or minimally invasive surgery.

So drink up — water, that is — and speak up. Help can be just a call away.