Definition

By Mayo Clinic staff

Overactive bladder is a problem with bladder-storage function that causes a sudden urge to urinate. The urge may be difficult to stop, and overactive bladder may lead to the involuntary loss of urine (incontinence). If you have an overactive bladder, you may feel embarrassed, isolate yourself, or limit your work and social life. The good news is that a brief evaluation can determine whether there’s a cause for your overactive bladder symptoms. Available treatments may greatly reduce or eliminate the symptoms and help you manage their effect on your daily life.

Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of overactive bladder may mean you:

• Feel a sudden urge to urinate that’s difficult to control
• Experience urge incontinence — the involuntary loss of urine immediately following an urgent need to urinate
• Urinate frequently, usually eight or more times in 24 hours
• Awaken two or more times in the night to urinate (nocturia)

Although you may be able to get to the toilet in time when you sense an urge to urinate, unexpected frequent and nighttime urination can disrupt your life.

When to see a doctor Overactive bladder isn’t a normal part of aging. Treatments are available that might help you. It can be difficult to discuss such a private matter with your doctor, but it’s important that you do — especially if your symptoms disrupt your work schedule, social interactions and everyday activities.

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/overactive-bladder/DS00827