Tuesday, March 26, 2024

What’s Good For Bladder Control

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Natural Supplements You Can Take At Home

Daily Kegel Routine for Bladder Control and Intimacy | Pelvic Floor Home Workout

While there have been very few scientific studies on herbal remedies as an option for overactive bladder treatment, some remedies have shown promising results for some people.

Studies from Japan have shown improvements in urgency, leakage and a reduction in night-time urination using a herbal remedy known as Gosha-jinki-gan. Also, the buchu plant from South Africa is thought to nourish the bladder tissue and fights inflammation which can lead to infections and incontinence.

There are also plenty of common herbs that may help with symptoms, including:

  • Corn silk
  • Capsaicin
  • Ganoderma lucidum

Remember to consult your doctor first before adding any of these herbal remedies into your overactive bladder management plan.

Pelvic Floor Muscle Exercises

Also known as Kegel exercises, these exercises are especially effective for stress incontinence but may also help urge incontinence. To do pelvic floor muscle exercises, imagine that youre trying to stop your urine flow. Then:

  • Tighten the muscles you would use to stop urinating and hold for five seconds, and then relax for five seconds.
  • Work up to holding the contractions for 10 seconds at a time.
  • Aim for at least three sets of 10 repetitions each day.

Kegel Exercises And Muscle Training

You can also do special pelvic floor exercises, or Kegel exercises, in addition to regular exercise. Kegel exercises strengthen the muscles to minimize involuntary contractions and improve posture. Its also one of the safest behavioral therapies without side effects and complications.

To do Kegel exercises:

  • Try stopping your urine mid-stream when going. The muscles you use are pelvic floor muscles. This is what youll focus on contracting during Kegel exercises.
  • Focus on tightening those muscles when you have an empty bladder. Hold this position for about five seconds at a time. Relax the muscles and then repeat five times. As your muscles get stronger, increase the duration to 10 seconds and 10 repetitions. Perform the exercises 10 or more times a day.
  • Breathe normally when doing these exercises.
  • Avoid squeezing your stomach, thighs, or buttocks instead of your pelvic floor muscles.
  • You can also talk to a physical therapist to see if youre squeezing the right muscles.

    Yes, Kegel exercises works for men, too »

    Recommended Reading: Types Of Pessaries For Bladder Prolapse

    What Causes Overactive Bladder

    An overactive bladder can be caused by several things, or even a combination of causes. Some possible causes can include:

    • Weak pelvic muscles: Pregnancy and childbirth can cause your pelvic muscles to stretch and weaken. This can cause the bladder to sag out of its normal position. All of these factors can cause leakage.
    • Nerve damage: Sometimes signals are sent to the brain and bladder to empty at the wrong time. Trauma and diseases can cause this to happen. These can include:
    • Pelvic or back surgery.
    • Stroke.
  • Medications, alcohol and caffeine: All of these products can dull the nerves, which affects the signal to the brain. This could result in bladder overflow. Diuretics and caffeine can cause your bladder to fill rapidly and possibly leak.
  • Infection: An infection, like a urinary tract infection , can irritate the bladder nerves and cause the bladder to squeeze without warning.
  • Excess weight: Being overweight places extra pressure on your bladder. This can lead to urge incontinence.
  • Estrogen deficiency after menopause: This hormonal change could contribute to a loss of urine due to urgency. Ask your doctor if vaginal-only estrogen therapy is right for you. This is different from systemic hormone therapy, which is absorbed throughout the body.
  • Often, there may be no specific explanation for why this is occurring.

    Barrier Devices For Urinary Incontinence

    Whats The Best Herbal Medicine For UTI

    Some devices control the flow of urine.

    Women can choose devices that go inside the vagina, like tampons or vaginal sponges. They provide temporary control by putting pressure on the tissues of the bladder. This helps keep urine from escaping and is particularly good for stress incontinence, where exercise, laughing, and sneezing causes urine to leak.

    For 24-hour protection, many women find a pessary helpful. This is a plastic device that’s inserted into the vagina. It comes in an array of sizes and shapes. It increases pressure on the urethra muscles and adds support to the pelvic region. These devices are fitted to your pelvis size, so youâll need to visit your doctor. You can remove them for cleaning. They should be replaced each year — and that means another trip to the doctor. Ask your doctor if a pessary is a good option for you. In some cases, they can make urinary incontinence worse.

    A vaginal guard is another option. Theyâre disposable devices that come in three sizes. The guard is inserted into the vagina using an applicator. It prevents leaks by adding support to the pelvic structures and muscles.

    For men, the primary device is a penile compression clamp. It squeezes the penis to keep the urethra closed for mild to moderate leaks. This can be used only for a certain amount of time.

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    Solutions For A Leaky Bladder

    Research has found that at least half of people with urinary incontinence dont discuss the condition with a health care provider. But theres no need to feel embarrassed. If you have a leaky bladder, youre definitely not alone. Bladder leakage, or urinary incontinence, affects women and men of all ages, though it becomes more common later in life.

    And its definitely worth discussing, because of the many ways it can interfere with enjoying daily lifefrom exercise and travel to social outings and romance, says E. James Wright, M.D., director of urology at Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center.

    Top Rated Bladder Control Products Of 2021

    Now that you know more about weak bladder control and how to tackle it, youre ready to buy a product that will help you avoid these issues. Before you get to see top-rated products, its important to learn how to avoid scams and find a supplement that truly works.

    All you need to do is to take some factors into consideration. They are:

    Also Check: Can A Bladder Infection Cause Bleeding

    Home Cooked Meals Are Best

    Processed foods are loaded with preservatives, benzyl alcohol, artificial flavors, and MSG that irritate the bladder and may trigger overactive bladder symptoms. It’s better to cook your meals from fresh food that you prepare yourself at home. Plan your meals around fresh vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.

    Behavioral Modification For The Treatment Of Overactive Bladder

    Exercises you can do to help your incontinence

    Various types of behavioral modifications may also be recommended for the treatment of overactive bladder. Examples include:

    • Dietary Changes: Decreasing water consumption throughout the day can help reduce leakage, as can avoiding substances that irritate the bladder, such as caffeine, fruit juices, and spicy foods.
    • Bladder Retraining: This method uses a set schedule for urination throughout the day. Between these times, no urination is allowed, even if leaks occur. The goal is to increase the time between bathroom visits to three to four hours.
    • Electrical Stimulation and Biofeedback: This technique provides information about when a patient is squeezing the muscles of her pelvic floor. A sensor is placed in the vagina or anus so that pelvic floor muscle contractions can be recorded. Exercises can help strengthen weak pelvic floor muscles, and if they don’t respond, electrical stimulation can activate the appropriate muscles.

    Recommended Reading: Best Homeopathic Medicine For Overactive Bladder

    Do Cranberries Help Or Hurt

    Cranberries are a mixed bag when it comes to your bladder. You may notice drinking cranberry juice helps ward off urinary tract infections, but the beverage may make you pee more often. Cranberries and cranberry juice are acidic and potential bladder irritants. Pay attention to how you feel when you ingest cranberries or cranberry juice. If they give you overactive bladder symptoms, you may need to back off. Decreasing your intake of acidic foods may also help decrease heartburn symptoms.

    Do You Have Bladder Problems These Are The Symptoms To Watch Out For:

    Bladder problems arent only found in older people. People of all ages can find themselves with bladder issues. In some cases, it can become a challenge to control the bladder. This sometimes also results in incontinence. Another common bladder problem is Overactive Bladder Syndrome , where you always feel a frequent urge to urinate. So before it is too late, recognize the signs and symptoms of bladder problems, including bladder infection and Urinary Tract Infection. Some of the common symptoms of bladder troubles include:

    Pain while urination A frequent urge to urinate also known as urgency Cramping in the lower abdomen and lower back

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    Do Regular Kegel Exercises

    Once you find your pelvic floor muscles, you can complete regular Kegel exercises to strengthen them. Simply contract your pelvic floor muscles, hold them for five to ten seconds, and relax them. The Urology Care Foundation suggests that you complete at least two sessions of Kegel exercises per day. Up to 30 contractions per session.

    Chamomile Teafor Bladder Issues And Infection

    Whats The Best Herbal Medicine For UTI

    Being one of the oldest medicinal plants globally, Chamomile has found extensive use today in the modern world. Chamomile tea is the go-to tea for multiple problems its excellent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory benefits are perfect for treating hemorrhagic cystitis. As it is widely available, it is easy to take advantage of its soothing and calming benefits.

    Adding chamomile tea to bath water is a restorative procedure with antiseptic advantages.

    Also Check: Men’s Overactive Bladder Treatment

    And Throw A Bit Of Vitamin D In There As Well

    Something else that you can do to your diet is throw in a bit of Vitamin D.

    While the primary use of this vitamin has been to promote calcium intake over the years, some studies have shown that it has positive effects on the bladder as well.

    Its worth mentioning that the daily requirement of vitamin D is 600 IU and most people fall well short of this.

    Considering the fact that studies have specifically targeted vitamin D in relation to incontinence issues, it might be time to fine-tune your diet.

    How Cbd Lowers Inflammation And Urinary Frequency

    CBD may help manage various illnesses like neuroinflammation, epilepsy, vomiting and nausea, oxidative injury, and anxiety.

    Neuroinflammation is an inflammatory response in the central nervous system associated with various diseases like multiple sclerosis and stroke. These diseases are some of the conditions that can trigger bladder dysfunctions like OAB.

    CBD works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system. The ECS contains receptors that regulate various body functions, like CB1 receptors in the central nervous system responsible for regulating inflammatory responses.

    Read Also: Does Cranberry Juice Help Bladder Problems

    Aged Cheeses May Be Problematic

    Dairy products can be bladder irritants. Sour cream and aged cheeses may be especially bad offenders. Luckily for you, there are tasty alternatives if your bladder can’t handle real dairy products. Try imitation sour cream or nut cheeses. You could try processed cheese that is not aged. Your body may tolerate these choices better.

    Oab: What To Drink And When

    Things you should know about â Urinary Tract Infection â

    First, make water your preferred beverage. Added ingredients in sodas and energy drinks, and caffeine in coffee, may aggravate an overactive bladder.

    Staying hydrated is important to overall health. But for people with OAB, choosing how much and when to drink is essential. The old saying about drinking eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day? A healthy adult may not need that much. The American Urogynecologic Society suggests drinking water when you’re thirsty.

    Here are six tips for managing your fluid intake:

    • Spread out fluid intake throughout the day, sipping water between meals.
    • Unless exercising, don’t carry a large water bottle with you.
    • Fill your cup or glass half-way or use a smaller cup.
    • Sip, don’t gulp.
    • If you’re drinking enough water, your urine should be light yellow or almost colorless.
    • Remember that you also get fluids in other foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and soups.

    See your doctor if you have pain or burning with urination, or if your urine is cloudy, dark, or smells strong.

    Recommended Reading: Surgical Treatment For Overactive Bladder

    Tips To Get Your Bladder Under Control

    Take control of your bladder

    Do you find yourself struggling to make it to the bathroom in time? Urinary incontinence is a common condition. Your doctor can help you understand whats causing it and recommend a treatment plan.

    Lifestyle changes can also help get your bladder under control. Learn about six steps you can take to reduce your risk of accidents and help you get back to enjoying everyday activities, leak-free.

    Supplements For Adequate Nutrition

    Developing a diet free of irritants can take some trial and error. During this time, its important to get the recommended amount of daily nutrients.

    Be sure to talk with your doctor about your individual nutritional needs. They can help determine the appropriate supplements for you.

    You may find it beneficial to supplement your diet with a daily multivitamin or nutrition drinks. Popular nutrition drinks include shakes, such as Boost or Ensure, and formulas, such as ProNourish.

    Check in with your doctor before adding a supplement or nutrition drink to your regimen. Certain ingredients may interfere with your medications or otherwise negatively impact your overall health.

    Read Also: Can Soda Cause Bladder Infection

    Seek Help From A Qualified Physical Therapist

    Vaginal childbirth can damage the ligaments, nerves, and pelvic floor muscles that support the vagina, bladder and urethra. While pelvic floor exercises may help some women after birth, many need more intensive physical therapy.

    Talk to your doctor, who may refer you to a qualified physical therapist who specializes in pelvic floor therapy if you have any incontinence or pain that doesnt go away after giving birth. Embarking on proper rehabilitation soon after having your baby may help you avoid more serious gynecological problems later on.

    Related: Leaking while running? Pro tips to run without worry

    What Medications Can I Use For Overactive Bladder

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    Your doctor may suggest trying behavioral techniques before having you use a medication to treat overactive bladder. However, medications can work very well to return normal function to the bladder. Ask your doctor about the risks and benefits of using the following commonly prescribed medications:

    Anticholinergic medications

    These medications control muscle spasms in the bladder:

    • Oxybutynin , oxybutynin XL , oxybutynin TDDS .
    • Tolterodine .
    • Mirabegron .

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    Home Remedies For Bladder Infection

    Here are some effective and natural remedies for bladder infection that are inexpensive, harmless and easy to use at home.

    1. Drink Plenty of Water : This is the best treatment for bladder infection. Water is a great cleansing agent and helps in flushing out the harmful bacteria in the form of diluted urine. So, drink lots of water for a quick relief from bladder infection.

    2. Baking Soda : Baking soda is one of the best home remedies for bladder infection pain. You just need to mix a spoonful of baking soda in a glass of water, and drink it. Repeat this remedy daily till the symptoms subside completely.

    3. Cranberry Juice : Cranberry juice is an effective home remedy to stop a bladder infection in pregnant women. Cranberry contains enzymes, which are really beneficial in treating a bladder infection. Therefore, drinking cranberry juice will let you to get rid of a bladder infection quickly.

    Note- Avoid intake of cranberry juice if you or any family member of yours has a history of kidney stones, or if you are taking medicines for thinning the blood.

    4. Apple Cider Vinegar : Soak in water, containing apple cider vinegar. It will greatly reduce the burning sensation that is caused while urinating due to a bladder infection.

    5. Yoghurt : Eating yoghurt is also beneficial as it contains acidophilus, which helps in curing the bladder infection.

    6. Heating Pad : In order to ease out the pain, caused due to a bladder infection, use a heating pad over the abdominal area.

    Tomato Overload May Make You Go

    Do you love tomatoes? You might like them less after learning they may make your overactive bladder symptoms worse. That’s because tomatoes are acidic. If you find your pasta dinner leads to overactive bladder at night, decrease or eliminate tomato-based products from your diet. Tomatoes aren’t just in pasta sauce but also foods like chili and condiments like ketchup.

    Recommended Reading: How To Improve Bladder Control After Pregnancy

    Foods That Are Great For Bladder Health

    Your bladder is an important part of the urinary tract system. Its an essential pear-shaped organ made out of expandable components that holds on to urine until its expelled from your body. The bladder itself is quite impressive and is able to stretch from about two inches to over six inches long, depending on the amount of liquid its holding.1 In a typical person, your bladder will reach capacity when it fills up with about 16-24 ounces of urine, but most people start to feel the urge to urinate when it is only 25% full.1 At this point, your body starts to send nerve signals to the brain indicating that its time to find a restroom. When you proceed to use the bathroom, there is a mixture of voluntary and involuntary muscles working to lead urine from the bladder, through the urethra, and out of the body.

    Your bladder works hand-in-hand with your kidneys to filter fluid and wastes from the bloodstream. They are the primary parts of the urinary tract system. The . When your bladder isnt functioning properly, it can lead to a number of problems.

  • Nuts

    Nuts are a great, heart-healthy food that provides you with much needed protein and healthy fats. While most nuts are bladder friendly, certain nuts can cause irritation. For the best options, stick to almonds, cashews, and peanuts.

  • Whole Grain
  • Choosing Healthier Drinks

    Different Types of Tea

    Certain Fruit Juices

    Lemon Enhanced Water

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