Let’s Talk About Bladder Health
November is Bladder Health Awareness Month — are you struggling with urinary conditions? Bladder health can be an uncomfortable and frankly embarrassing subject for many, but the truth is these disorders are more common than you think, affecting millions of Americans. You’re not alone and there’s no need to be ashamed — learn more about some frequent ailments and some tips on how to improve your bladder health.
Common Bladder Conditions
Disorders of the bladder are wide-ranging in both symptoms and severity, ranging from discomfort to life-threatening. According to the American Urological Association, some common bladder conditions include the following:
- Hematuria, or blood in the urine
- Bladder cancer
- Interstitial cystitis, also known as bladder pain syndrome
- Kidney stones
- Overactive bladder
Each of these disorders may share symptoms with one another, so consult with a physician if you experience any common warning signs. Symptoms may include:
- Leaking or inability to hold urine
- Needing to urinate more frequently or urgently
- Cloudy urine
- Blood in urine
- Pain before, during, or after urinating
- Trouble urinating or weak stream
- Trouble emptying the bladder
Treating Bladder Conditions
Depending on the severity of the disorder and how it affects your everyday life, a visit to a urologist may be warranted. A urologist is a provider specializing in the treatment of the urinary tract of both men and women, including the bladder, kidneys, ureters, and urethra. A primary care provider may offer a urology referral, but this isn’t always necessary — in some cases, visiting a urologist can be the first option.
While some bladder conditions may be caused by factors beyond your control, the National Institutes of Health recommends some basic lifestyle changes that can reduce the risk of developing a problem later in life. Some steps you can take include:
- Using the bathroom often and when needed
- Assuming a relaxed position when urinating
- Completely emptying the bladder
- For women, wiping from front to back
- Urinating after sexual intercourse
- Exercising your pelvic floor muscles
- Wearing cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothes
- Exercising regularly
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Eating healthy
- Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water
- Limiting consumption of alcohol and caffeine
- Avoiding constipation with a diet of high-fiber foods, exercise, and physical activity
- Quitting smoking
- Checking your medications for side effects