An overactive bladder, a condition that causes an intense and sudden urge to urinate, occurs in approximately 17 percent of women and 16 percent of men, according to the National Association for Continence. The kidneys, nerves and muscles all play a part in the proper filling and emptying of the bladder and a malfunction in any of these areas can lead to an overactive bladder. The reasons for an overactive bladder range from mild to serious--it can be as simple as a medication side effect or it can be an indication of cancer.
Medications
Certain medications may cause the bladder to produce increased urine, reports MayoClinic.com. Some types of diuretics, antidepressants, high blood pressure medications, sedatives and some narcotics may result in an increased production of urine and overactive bladder.
Diabetes
Uncontrolled diabetes may result in increased thirst and frequent urination as the body tries to get rid of excess glucose. Advanced diabetes may result in damaged nerves, which left untreated, may disrupt the signals the nerves give to the bladder.
Neurological Disorders
Nerves that control your bladder's function can be damaged due to neurological disorders. In some cases, neurological disorders cause your brain's signal to the bladder to malfunction, resulting in an overactive bladder. Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis and strokes are neurological disorders associated with an overactive bladder, reports the Cleveland Clinic.
Prostate Conditions
An overactive bladder in men may result from inflammation of the prostrate, enlargement of the prostate gland, prostate cancer or prostate cancer treatments, according to MedlinePlus. In addition to frequent urination, a prostate condition may include difficult or painful urination or blood in the urine.
Bladder Disease
Bladder disease is another factor associated with an overactive bladder. Bladder inflammation, bladder stones, bladder cancer or a bladder blockage may lead to an overactive bladder, reports MedlinePlus.
Other Factors
An overactive bladder may be stimulated by the consumption of caffeine and alcohol. Both caffeine and alcohol are diuretics, which cause your body to eliminate excess fluid. A urinary tract infection may cause frequent urination, causing symptoms similar to an overactive bladder, says UrinaryHealth.org. Constipation that blocks bladder emptying may also be a culprit for an overactive bladder, according to MayoClinic.com. The Cleveland Clinic states that being overweight or having weak pelvic muscles can also cause symptoms of an overactive bladder.
