Women are twice as likely as men to experience symptoms of an overactive bladder and urinary incontinence (UI), according to the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NKUDIC). The problems begin to occur as the muscles that hold the urinary tract together begin to lose strength. Some people with UI are inconvenienced by the condition and only have minor episodes, like releasing urine when they cough or sneeze. Others feel a strong overpowering urge to urinate only seconds before they begin releasing the urine. The NKUDIC reports that a urologist typically will ask for a history of urinary habits and request patients keep a diary to find the individual cause of overactive bladder and UI.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy takes a toll on the female urinary tract system because the bladder sits so close to the uterus. Childbirth can damage the area on which the system rests so that it is unable to support the bladder. The pelvic floor muscles, nearby ligaments and the vagina all make up the vital bladder support system. The bladder can move down if this platform is damaged during delivery, causing the bladder to push out the bottom of the pelvis. The muscles that usually work to shut the urethra become compromised and unable to shut properly. This type of bladder condition is called stress incontinence.
Disease
Various diseases, such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease and multiple sclerosis can damage the nerves of the bladder, other vital areas on the nervous system and muscles in the bladder. Urge incontinence can result from this damage. Patients lose urine immediately after feeling the need to go. An overactive bladder operates inefficiently when the nerves have been damaged, as well. The muscles of the bladder can contract without warning and cause the need to urinate up to seven times a day or more. A stroke, injury during a surgical procedure or other trauma can damage the bladder nerves and cause overactive bladder and UI. Nerve damage from diabetes and tumors or stones can also cause urinary tract problems.
Anxiety
Many people who suffer with urge incontinence lose urine during their sleep or after taking just a few sips of water. The condition can manifest when the person hears water flowing or touches it when bathing or washing dishes, for example. Researchers at the NKUDIC report that anxiety and other strong emotional states can cause urge incontinence.
