One of the newer indications to treat overactive bladder, approved January 2013, is treatment with Botox! Never heard of the issue? It’s actually quite common. Unfortunately, as with most ailments, prevalence increases with age; about 50% of nursing home residents experience incontinence resultant from an overactive bladder.
What is the telltale sign you may have a bladder issue? Urgency. Technically defined, it is the urge to urinate ‘frequently,’ defined as more than 8 times per day or more than once nightly. The problem can be a pesky persistent one, and other more serious medical conditions should be ruled out before ruling overactive bladder to be the main issue. Overactive bladder can not only be a numerous-times-per-day annoyance, but can have deep psychological ramifications. Frequent urge to urinate can interrupt daily life, in work, and can be increasingly difficult to manage with travel or recreation.
Once the diagnosis of overactive bladder is made, there are numerous treatment options. Recommendations include weight loss, smoking cessation, bladder behavioral training, and even limiting caffeine and alcohol. Certain foods are even known to exacerbate overactive bladder, and avoiding things like spicy foods and even MSG and artificial sweeteners are known triggers.
For those that still have issues after lifestyle modifications and specific medications, Botox is a great treatment option. Botox has personally touched many lives of those affected by overactive bladder. People are urinating 3-4 times per HOUR pre-treatment, and after Botox, they have their freedom and independence restored when they can live without always being a stone’s throw from the restroom. More personal stories told HERE.