What Are the Treatments for Bladder Problems?

Bladder problems can be painful, inconvenient and in some cases embarrassing. Luckily, there are many treatments available for a variety of bladder problems, so if you are experiencing any of them it is important to speak to your doctor about the options available to you.

Identification

• Most bladder problems are referred to as an overactive bladder, or incontinence. While neither of these is considered a disease, they may be an indication that there is a more serious condition that needs to be examined by a doctor immediately. Ordinarily a doctor will prescribe medication and a regimen of physical therapy designed to strengthen the bladder and reduce the instances of incontinence.

Eating Habits

• Your doctor may decide that a change in your eating habits will help with your bladder issues, such as limiting or eliminating caffeinated beverages or alcohol from your diet---or after a certain hour of the day.
  It may also be necessary to eat more fiber to help regulate the bowels, as constipation can affect the bladder and cause incontinence.

Physical Therapy

• Losing weight is another potential treatment, as excessive weight on your body can put extra pressure on your bladder. If you have diabetes your doctor may order a more regimented program to help keep the condition under control.
  Physical therapy, such as Kegel exercises designed to strengthen the pelvic muscles, also helps ward off bladder problems.
  In addition, it may be necessary to put your bladder on a regular schedule to allow it to become accustomed to urinating at certain times of the day. Intervals between instances of urination are gradually increased from an hour to several hours apart.

Medication

• Medications such as Detrol and Ditropan are used to help relax the bladder and reduce the urge to urinate. They are both often effective, though they are ordinarily prescribed in conjunction with some sort of therapeutic treatment as well.

Surgery

• Surgery on the bladder could be required to eliminate blockages in the urinary tract or bladder itself, or to repair a deformity in the bladder that prevents it from functioning properly.
  In some cases a catheter may be prescribed to help relieve the bladder, though it is not considered a long-term solution as its use can lead to other infections.