5 common risk factors for an overactive bladder
An overactive bladder (OAB) is a group of symptoms that affect the bladder and mainly trigger urinary incontinence. In most cases, frequently passing excessive urine is one of the glaring symptoms. Following are the five most common factors that can lead to an overactive bladder.
Hormonal changes
This is one of the main reasons why women are at a higher risk of experiencing problems with their bladders. Menopause, pregnancy, and menstruation problems trigger hormonal imbalances that affect the pelvic floor muscles.
Neurological disorders
Any mental illnesses or damage done to vital neural networks can interrupt the proper flow of messages from the bladder to the brain and vice versa. The lack of control over the pelvic floor muscles can result in urinary incontinence. Neurological problems can also hinder your ability to pass urine normally. This risk is equally high among men and women.
Old age
Age is one of the main risk factors for OAB. Studies indicate that loss of bladder control is highly possible with advancing age. Old age affects your physical and mental ability to control the pelvic muscles. Loss of muscle control forces the bladder to expand and contract without any warning. This is mainly why elderly people experience the urge to urinate more frequently and also experience pain in the process.
Obesity
Excessive weight, especially in the abdominal region, can put a lot of pressure on the bladder. The organ is responsible for storing urine until it can be vacated. However, excess weight can force the bladder to vacate liquids early and frequently. Obesity can also affect proper blood flow to the organ and may disrupt nerve impulses due to the pressure the body experiences.
Medications
Certain medications used to treat chronic disorders and physical ailments may cause the muscles to spasm involuntarily, and in turn, lead to urinary incontinence. Sleeping pills and medications taken for managing blood pressure, mental illnesses, and kidney issues, among others, can negatively impact bladder control. Note that the side effects will vary depending on the dosage and frequency of the prescriptions.