Sometimes known as an overactive bladder, urge incontinence has the potential to completely disrupt a person’s life. The frequent need to urinate, sometimes at inopportune moments, can lead to a loss of confidence, sleep, and even intimacy with a partner. An overactive bladder becomes categorized as urge incontinence when this issue causes a person to involuntarily leak urine. Dr. Ghomi is a board-certified and fellowship-trained gynecologist with extensive experience diagnosing and treating patients for urinary incontinence. Call (862) 657-3150 to schedule an appointment at our urogynecology office in North Jersey today!

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What Are the Symptoms of OAB & Urge Incontinence?

Some people may need to urinate more frequently due to factors like excessive water intake or consuming diuretics such as coffee. These situations can cause temporary increases in urination. However, individuals with true urge incontinence typically experience the following symptoms on a regular basis:

  • A Sudden Urge to Urinate: People with urge incontinence often feel an overwhelming and uncontrollable need to urinate at random times during the day. This urge can occur regardless of fluid intake or timing of the last drink.
  • Frequent Urination: Normal bladder function generally involves urinating no more than eight times in a 24-hour period. Those with urge incontinence often exceed this and may release only a small amount of urine each time.
  • Disrupted Sleep: While occasionally waking at night to urinate is normal, individuals with urge incontinence often do so consistently—one to two times per night, nearly every night.

What Causes Urge Incontinence?

To understand the causes of urge incontinence, it’s helpful to first understand how the urinary system works:

  1. The kidneys produce urine, which drains into the bladder.
  2. As the bladder fills, nerve signals are sent to the brain, triggering the sensation of needing to urinate.
  3. When ready, the brain signals the pelvic floor and urethral muscles to relax and release urine.

When any part of this process malfunctions, urge incontinence may occur. Common causes include:

  • Diabetes
  • Neurological disorders
  • Side effects from medications
  • Bladder abnormalities or growths
  • Age-related cognitive decline

How Is Urge Incontinence Tested?

Your doctor may recommend one or more tests to help determine the cause of your symptoms. Common tests include:

  • Post-Void Residual (PVR) Test: Measures the amount of urine remaining in the bladder after urination. This helps rule out incomplete emptying, which can mimic symptoms of OAB.
  • Urine Flow Rate Test: Evaluates the volume and speed of urine flow to detect blockages or abnormalities in the urinary tract.
  • Cystometry (Bladder Pressure Test): Involves slowly filling the bladder with warm water while monitoring pressure changes. This test can detect involuntary bladder contractions or poor bladder compliance.

How Is Urge Incontinence Treated?

Initial treatment typically involves behavioral changes, such as pelvic floor exercises or dietary adjustments, along with medications designed to reduce urgency. If these approaches are not effective, additional treatments may be considered.

What Is Nerve Stimulation?

Nerve stimulation involves implanting a small device under the skin to regulate electrical impulses to the sacral nerves, which control bladder function. Before a permanent implant is placed, patients usually try a temporary external device to evaluate its effectiveness.

What Are Bladder Injections?

Bladder injections, often using botulinum toxin (Botox), can partially relax the bladder muscles. These injections typically provide relief for about five months, after which repeat treatment may be necessary.

How Is Incontinence Surgically Treated?

Surgery is generally considered a last-resort treatment for bladder control issues. The goal is to improve the bladder’s ability to store urine and reduce involuntary pressure or urgency before urination.