Bladder Control Issues Caused by Nervous System Disorders: Signs, Consequences, and Remedies
Neurogenic bladder is a condition that arises when there's a disruption in the communication between the nerves, spinal cord, or brain, and the muscles in the bladder. This impairment can lead to various urination problems.
Symptoms of Neurogenic Bladder
An overactive bladder may leak urine, have frequent urination in small amounts, feel the urge to urinate a lot, lack bladder control, and experience urinary incontinence. On the other hand, an underactive bladder may struggle to release urine, have a bladder that is frequently full, not be able to tell when the bladder is full, have difficulty urinating, and experience overflow leakage.
Causes of Neurogenic Bladder
Neurogenic bladder can stem from a variety of neurological injuries or diseases. These include spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, other neurological conditions such as dementia, diabetes (which can damage nerves), heavy metal poisoning, significant pelvic surgery affecting nerves, and congenital spinal cord problems like spina bifida.
Diagnosis and Treatment
To diagnose neurogenic bladder, a doctor will take a detailed look at a person's brain, spinal cord, and bladder, review the person's medical history, and may ask the person to keep a bladder diary, undergo a pad test, or perform other tests. Common diagnostic tools include cystoscopy, ultrasound of the bladder, CT scans, urodynamic testing, and a urine culture to check for urinary tract infections.
Various treatments are available depending on the type and severity of the condition. For an underactive bladder, clean intermittent catheterization (CIC) or continuous catheterization might be recommended. For an overactive bladder, treatments could include percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation, Botox injections, or sacral neuromodulation. If lifestyle changes do not help, a doctor may recommend these treatments.
Complications and Prevention
Untreated neurogenic bladder can lead to urinary tract infections (UTIs), which can cause further complications if left unchecked. Regular check-ups and prompt treatment can help prevent these complications.
In summary, neurogenic bladder is a complex condition that requires careful management. If you suspect you might be experiencing symptoms of neurogenic bladder, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
- Neurogenic bladder is often associated with chronic diseases like multiple sclerosis and other neurological disorders, which can impact urinary health and be part of broader health-and-wellness concerns.
- Science has made advancements in the diagnosis and treatment of neurogenic bladder, helping individuals manage this condition and maintain mental-health well-being.
- Medical-conditions such as diabetes can damage nerves, potentially leading to neurogenic bladder and other complications in urinary health.
- To prevent complications like urinary tract infections, it is crucial to seek regular medical check-ups and follow a treatment plan if diagnosed with neurogenic bladder.
