Overactive bladder (OAB) is more common than diabetes and vision problems. (1,2,3,4) Symptoms typically include urinary urgency (a sudden and compelling “gotta go” feeling), urinary frequency (urinating more than 8 times in a 24-hour period), and urge incontinence (an uncontrollable loss of urine). OAB affects both men and women of all ages. If you’re one of the tens of millions of people in the U.S. who suffer from this condition (3,4), it’s important to know that bladder incontinence isn’t a normal part of getting older. It’s a very treatable condition.
WHAT IS A BLADDER SYMPTOM DIARY?
Understanding your symptoms and how they are affecting your life is important when seeking treatment. A bladder symptom diary is a great tool to help with this. It typically tracks several things:
- When and how much fluid you drink
- When and how much you urinate
- How often you have urgency — that “gotta go” feeling
- When and how much urine you leak
- How often you’re using protective garments
A bladder symptom diary may also aid the conversations you have with your physician. A doctor who specializes in treating overactive bladder can review your diary with you to determine the best treatment.
HOW TO USE A BLADDER SYMPTOM DIARY
It’s easy to use. Just download a bladder symptom diary by clicking here and begin tracking your habits. Take notes throughout the day and night. Track your habits for at least three days to get a true sense of your symptoms and recognize patterns and behaviors that may be impacting your bladder.
Bring your completed diary to your next office visit and share it with your doctor to start a conversation. This will give your doctor a more accurate picture of your symptoms and how they are potentially affecting your life.
This article was sponsored by Medtronic, maker of the InterStim™️ Systems and NURO™️ System for bladder control. Want to receive more information about OAB or locate a physician near you? Simply visit https://controlleaks.com/bladder/contact-bladder-control/ to sign up today.
InterStim™️ Systems for Bladder Control
In addition to risks related to surgery, complications can include pain at the implant sites, new pain, infection, lead (thin wire) movement/migration, device problems, undesirable changes in urinary or bowel function, and uncomfortable stimulation (sometimes described as a jolting or shocking feeling). Talk with your doctor about ways to minimize these risks. Surgery is required to remove the InterStim™ System. Always discuss the potential risks and benefits of the therapy with your physician. This therapy is not for everyone. A prescription is required. For full safety information please visit https://controlleaks.com/.
NUROTM System for Bladder Control
Adverse events are typically temporary, and include mild pain, minor inflammation and bleeding near treatment site.
References
- National Center for Health Statistics, National Health Interview Survey (NHIS), http://www.cdc.gov/visionhealth/basic_information/vision_loss_burden.htm. Accessed July 1, 2020.
- National diabetes statistics, 2011. National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse website. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes. Accessed July 1, 2020
- Stewart WF, et al. Prevalence and burden of overactive bladder in the United States. World J Urol. 2003 May;20(6):327-336.
- United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division (2011). World Population Prospects: The 2010 Revision, CD-ROM Edition.
