The urinary bladder collects the urine produced by the kidneys and is located in the pelvis. According to the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NKUDIC), the bladder can store up to 16 ounces of urine for two to five hours. Because the kidneys are constantly producing urine, the function of a storage system is important for continuing our day-to-day activities. Bladder health issues are diagnosed through a variety of methods including imaging tests and urine tests. Being familiar with common disorders will help you identify your condition and make informed treatment choices.
Bladder Cancer
Bladder cancer is the sixth most common form of cancer in the United States, according to the National Library of Medicine. Because smoking significantly raises the risk of developing bladder cancer, quitting is one of the best ways to avoid it. Symptoms of bladder cancer include pain with urination or frequent urination, blood in the urine, and abdominal or lower back pain. The method of treatment prescribed for bladder cancer varies on the type of cancer and the extent to which the cancer has developed. Surgery to remove the tumor, or all or part of the bladder may be performed. Medications may be prescribed, including immune-stimulants and chemotherapy. Radiation therapy may also be used.
Bladder Infection
A bladder infection may also be known as a urinary tract infection. In this situation, symptoms involve pain during urination, foul smelling urine, urinary frequency and urgency, fever and fatigue, and lower abdomen pain or pressure. A urine sample can diagnose the infection, and treatment involves medication with antibiotics.
Overactive Bladder
Incontinence, the need to urinate frequently and feeling a sudden urge to urinate, are all symptoms of an overactive bladder. According to the Mayo Clinic, an overactive bladder involves the muscles that form the bladder wall involuntarily contracting. In a healthy bladder, this contraction occurs only after you voluntarily choose to urinate. An overactive bladder can be treated through surgery, medications, or lifestyle modifications such as managing the amount and timing of the fluid you drink, training your bladder and performing pelvic floor muscle exercises.
Interstitial Cystitis
Interstitial cystitis occurs nine times more in women than in men, according to the NKUDIC. Symptoms involve urinary frequency and urgency, and pain. The symptoms may only occur during urination, or may be absent for a number of months before returning. In order to differentiate interstitial cystitis from other bladder health issues that cause similar symptoms, a health care provider will perform a number of tests including urine samples and directly visualizing the bladder with a scope. Treatment for interstitial cystitis is highly individualized to each person. Medications may help, as well as physical therapy and pelvic floor muscle strengthening. Devices that stimulate the nerves going to the bladder may lessen or resolve the symptoms. Lifestyle adjustments such as diet modifications and increasing easy to moderate exercise can also help.
References
- National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Your Urinary System and How It Works
- National Library of Medicine: Bladder Diseases
- National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse: What I need to know about Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome
- Mayo Clinic: Bladder cancer
- Mayo Clinic: Overactive bladder
