According to MedlinePlus, a publication of the National Institutes of Health, bladder spasms occur when bladder muscles involuntarily contract and generate an urge to urinate. Typically, bladder spasms develop into urge incontinence. This condition is characterized by urine leakage due to uncontrollable bladder contractions, according to the MayoClinic.com. Bladder spasms are caused by various things such as urinary tract infections, neurological problems, interstitial cystitis, catheters or surgery. Consult with a physician who can properly diagnose and treat bladder spasms.
Interstitial cystitis
According to the MayoClinic.com, interstitial cystitis is a painful bladder syndrome characterized by bladder pain, bladder pressure and sometimes pelvic pain. Typically, it is accompanied by feelings of urgency which are a primary symptom of bladder spasms. If left untreated, this condition can develop into complex bladder and kidney diseases.
Urinary tract infections
The University of Maryland reports that urinary bladder infections are the common cause of bladder spasms. Also known as UTIs, sufferers experience foul smelling urine, painful urination, urinary urgency and frequency. Severe causes may also result in chills, nausea, fever, vomiting and associated pain.
Catheters
MedlinePlus reports that urge incontinence and bladder spasms may be caused by regular catheter use. A catheter is inserted into a body cavity, vessel or duct. It allows drainage, fluid injection or surgical instrument entrance. For example, catheters are frequently used to drain urine from the body. As a result, it occasionally causes bladder irritation which may result in bladder spasms.
Surgery
Bladder spasm can be caused by certain surgeries. According to the Southwestern Medical Center, abdominal surgical procedures can weaken the bladder muscles, pelvic floor or damage the surrounding nerves. Examples of bladder spasm causing surgeries include bladder surgery, cesarean section, hysterectomy and kidney surgery.
Nervous system disorders
People with neurological problems often develop bladder spasms. This usually involves conflicting messages sent to the bladder nerves. As a result, infrequent bladder contractions can occur without notice. According to the MayoClinic.com, neurological disorders that can cause bladder spasms include herpes, brain tumors, stroke, diabetes, Parkinson's disease, cerebral palsy and multiple sclerosis.
