Overactive Bladder

Simple and concise medicine of the oriental doctor Cheongwoon.
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Overactive Bladder

[Overview]
Overactive bladder is a condition where you feel a sudden urge to urinate that is difficult to control. It happens even when the bladder is not full. It is common and affects daily life and sleep.

[Causes]
The bladder muscles contract involuntarily. Causes include nerve damage from diabetes or stroke, urinary tract infections, bladder stones, and enlarged prostate in men. Consuming too much caffeine or alcohol and aging also contribute.

[Symptoms]
The main symptom is a sudden strong urge to urinate. You may urinate eight or more times a day. Waking up two or more times at night to urinate is common. Urine leakage before reaching the toilet can also occur.

[Diagnosis]
Doctors review your medical history and symptoms. A urine test checks for infections. Keeping a bladder diary to record fluid intake and bathroom visits is very helpful. An ultrasound may be used to check for leftover urine.

[Prognosis]
Most people find relief with proper treatment. It is a chronic condition needing ongoing management but rarely causes serious physical harm. Finding the right treatment takes some time.

[Western Medicine Treatment]
Doctors prescribe medications to relax the bladder muscle. If pills fail, botulinum toxin injections can calm the muscles. Nerve stimulation therapies or surgery to enlarge the bladder are options for severe cases.

[Korean Medicine Treatment]
Acupuncture and moxibustion strengthen kidney and bladder functions. Herbal medicine is frequently used. Common prescriptions include Yukmijihwangtang and Palmijihwangtang. Must be prescribed with modifications according to individual constitution and symptoms after diagnosis by a Korean medical doctor.

[Lifestyle Management]
Maintain a normal weight to reduce pressure on the bladder. Limit caffeine and alcohol as they irritate the bladder. Drink water but avoid large amounts right before bed. Quit smoking because coughing worsens urine leakage.

[Home Remedies]
Kegel exercises strengthen pelvic floor muscles to help control urination. Bladder training helps by delaying urination for a few minutes when feeling the urge, gradually increasing the time between bathroom visits.

[Precautions]
Do not severely restrict fluids, as concentrated urine irritates the bladder. Consult a doctor before using over the counter cold medications because some can worsen urinary symptoms.

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