What is a bladder voiding dysfunction?
A bladder voiding dysfunction occurs when an individual can’t fully empty their bladder. It is typically separated into the two key groups of non-neurogenic and neurogenic.
For those diagnosed with non-neurogenic voiding dysfunction, it can be caused by weak bladder muscles, blockages, or poor bathroom habits (such as ignoring the urge to urinate). It can often lead to weak urine flow, difficulty starting to urinate, or having the urge to urinate more often.
In contrast, neurogenic voiding dysfunction, or neurogenic bladder, is a disorder that involves the brain or spinal cord and the signals sent between the nerves and bladder function.
What are the symptoms of a bladder voiding dysfunction (non-neurogenic)?
In addition to voiding difficulties, individuals with non-neurogenic dysfunction can experience constipation, leaking urine (known as urinary incontinence), frequent urination, waking up to urinate throughout the night (known as nocturia), a strong urge to urinate, and the feeling that the bladder wasn’t fully emptied.
How do I know if I have bladder voiding dysfunction?
It can often feel embarrassing to discuss voiding issues with your provider, but the specialists at The Iowa Clinic can help diagnose and treat your concerns. Through urinalysis and imaging tests such as ultrasound and/or CT, the underlying condition for your voiding dysfunction can be addressed.
Your provider will help determine which testing is most beneficial to you based on your medical history and current symptoms.
How do you treat bladder voiding dysfunction?
There are several options for the treatment and management of non-neurogenic bladder voiding dysfunction. Depending on the underlying cause, the providers at The Iowa Clinic may recommend medications, bladder training, pelvic floor physical therapy, or nerve stimulation. There are also several surgical options to improve symptoms.
Additionally, bladder function can be improved through lifestyle changes, including adding more fiber to your diet, limiting irritating foods and drinks such as caffeine, quitting smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight.