Incontinence, or an overactive bladder, and many other urinary conditions are often caused by nerve issues that affect many parts of the body. Nerve damage related to diabetes, traumatic injuries, and autoimmune conditions can make it impossible to control your bladder or fully eliminate urine, and may trigger uncomfortable sensations. Below is an overview of how neuropathic health issues can impact the health of your bladder.

Neuropathic Conditions & the Bladder

Like all organs, the bladder is controlled by a network of muscles and nerves that allow it to hold and void urine. While you may not be aware of it, the brain is in constant communication with these muscles, which send messages back and forth through the nerves.

Many common medical conditions, such as diabetes and Parkinson’s, damage the nerves. This disrupts the transmission between the brain and the bladder-controlling muscles. In some cases, this may result in incontinence, the inability to store urine until it can be eliminated voluntarily. It may also cause an underactive bladder, which is unable to fully empty itself when you urinate.

Symptoms of a Neuropathic Bladder

The symptoms of a neuropathic bladder vary from person to person and may not initially seem extreme. Many patients experience frequent urinary tract infections, kidney stones, and incontinence, the inability to control urination. A sudden need to urinate, followed by leaking urine, is often a sign of an overactive bladder, which may be linked to strokes and brain diseases like Parkinson’s.

Others are only able to produce a small stream of urine, even when their bladder feels full. These symptoms are often related to diabetes, MS, or prior serious injuries to the pelvic floor.

Testing for Neuropathic Bladder

Doctors may ask you to keep a journal of how often you feel the need to urinate and record daily symptoms. They might also order a uroflowmetry test where a special toilet measures your urine output. If they suspect damage to the bladder or urethra, they may also use a special fiber-optic camera to visually inspect your urinary tract from the inside.

If you haven’t been diagnosed with a neuropathic disorder, they may also order nerve conduction tests, bloodwork, and other tests to identify the cause of your bladder issues. Seeing your doctor as soon as you notice urinary symptoms can help identify potentially serious conditions before they progress much further.

Since 1990, the team at Medical Center Urology has provided cutting-edge services to patients throughout High Point, NC, and the Triad area. Whether you’re living with incontinence or an overactive bladder, their board-certified urology specialist has the experience and resources to provide the relief you need using the most advanced treatments on the market. Visit their website or call (336) 882-0220 to schedule an appointment.