What Causes Overactive Bladder (OAB)?
An overactive bladder can affect how often you pee and your state of urgency. The condition is more common in people 65 and older, however women are often more affected by OAB earlier in life (i.e., pregnancy). Overactive bladder has many causes and typically is represented by a collection of symptoms. OAB can be caused by the following:
- Abdominal trauma: women are often more affected by OAB, as pregnancy and childbirth can adversely stretch and weaken the pelvic muscles. Physical damage to the muscles (specifically the detrusor muscle) and tissues that support the bladder in the lower abdomen can cause the bladder to shift out of its normal position.
- Infection: a urinary tract infection (UTI) can irritate the bladder nerves and cause the bladder to squeeze without warning. Chronic bacterial infections may exacerbate OAB symptoms.
- Nerve damage: as the bladder fills with urine, nerve signals are sent to the brain to alert you of the need to pee. With OAB the body sends these signals at the wrong times which can cause a sudden urge to urinate that is difficult to control. Disease and physical trauma can cause neurological damage, for instance abdominal surgery, herniated discs, enlarged prostate, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and stroke.
- Being overweight: having extra body weight can put pressure on the bladder, which can cause urge incontinence. It is important to maintain a healthy weight.
- Menopause: hormonal changes such as oestrogen (i.e., estrogen) deficiency during perimenopause and menopause may cause urgency incontinence. Loss of oestrogen can lead to decreased muscle strength, especially in the pelvic area.
- Medication: there are medications that can affect signals to the brain and cause the bladder to overflow. Some drugs may increase the onset or exacerbation of urinary incontinence, for example diuretics. Alcohol and caffeine can also play a role in causing the bladder to fill rapidly and leak.
Unfortunately this is not a definitive list of OAB causes. If you suspect you have an overactive bladder or urinary incontinence talk to your GP about bladder training, pelvic floor muscle health and other potential treatments like our Emsella pelvic floor treatment.
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