Bladder dysfunction can be a sensitive topic for those who are experiencing symptoms. Painful, uncomfortable and unpredictable, bladder dysfunction signs and symptoms can vary depending on your gender, age and existing health conditions.
In this guide, we discuss the key symptoms of bladder dysfunction and the importance of getting a diagnosis to alleviate symptoms.
What is bladder dysfunction?
Bladder dysfunction refers to the condition where you are unable to manage, control, or predict bladder function. Often confused with urinary incontinence, bladder dysfunction specifically refers to any problem with the bladder's ability to store, empty or pass urine. Urinary incontinence, in contrast, specifically relates to problems with urine leakage.
Key symptoms of bladder dysfunction
Urinary incontinence
Urinary incontinence is one of the most common symptoms of bladder dysfunction and is a condition that causes reduced or weakened control of when your bladder passes urine. There are three types of urinary incontinence:
- Stress incontinence (when you leak urine due to a sudden pressure, such as coughing or sneezing)
- Urge incontinence (when you have a sudden, intense urge to go to the toilet without any warning)
- Overflow incontinence (when you leak urine constantly because you cannot empty your bladder properly when on the toilet)
Nocturia
Nocturia is a condition that causes you to go to the toilet throughout the night. It can disrupt sleep, and can indicate bladder dysfunction or other conditions such as an overactive bladder or diabetes.
Bladder pain
Often described as a burning sensation, the feeling of fullness, or a consistent pressure or discomfort, a new pain in the bladder may indicate bladder dysfunction. However, this can also be caused by a UTI (urinary tract infection) or bladder pain syndrome, so it’s best to consult with a urologist to identify and diagnose the root cause of the pain
Hesitancy and a weak stream
If you struggle with going to the toilet and being able to pass urine comfortably, it may be due to bladder dysfunction. Typical symptoms include struggling to start to urinate, even though you need to go to the toilet, or having a weak flow when urinating. If this symptom occurs frequently, it could be caused by prostate issues, pelvic floor dysfunction, or bladder dysfunction.
Feeling unable to empty your bladder properly
If you have the uncomfortable sensation that you still need to go to the toilet, even after you have just been, this could indicate bladder dysfunction. You can help identify this symptom by making a note of how many times you go to the toilet; for example, if you return to the bathroom soon after a previous visit, it could indicate an underlying condition.
Even if you are unsure of the root cause, it is best to seek reassurance and an official diagnosis if you experience any symptoms of bladder dysfunction syndrome. Getting answers can help you manage the condition, and find suitable treatment to mitigate your discomfort, pain and uncertainty. To find out more, speak to our friendly team or book a urology consultation today.
Causes of bladder dysfunction
With a range of symptoms of varying intensity, diagnosing the root cause of bladder dysfunction is essential before seeking treatment. Treatment options include medication management and physiotherapy to help manage the pain, which is why identifying the source is essential to avoid unwanted side effects or incorrect advice.
Neurological conditions
Neurological disorders can significantly impact bladder function due to the role the nervous system plays in managing bladder control. Nerve signals send messages to the bladder to store and release urine, and if these are disrupted, it can lead to incontinence. Some of the recognised conditions that can affect bladder function include:
- Multiple sclerosis
- Parkinson’s disease
- Stroke
- Spinal cord injuries
If you would like to speak to one of our Consultant Neurologists about any of these conditions, you can get in touch with our Neurology team, or book a consultation today.
Diabetes
Diabetes can damage the nerves that control bladder function, which can lead to a loss in sensation, weaker bladder muscles and overactive bladder symptoms.
UTIs
Urinary tract infections are caused by the presence of bacteria in the nervous system. This can result in reduced bladder function and the following symptoms:
- Frequent urination
- Burning sensation while urinating
- Strong smelling urine
Medication
Certain medications can also increase your chances of developing bladder dysfunction. This is because of how the medication interacts with nerve signals, which can relax bladder muscles and lead to incontinence. Recognised medications include diuretics, antidepressants, antihistamines and opioid painkillers.
To find out more about bladder dysfunction and receiving a diagnosis, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Modality LLP to book a consultation. Our team of specialist urologists have years of experience delivering expert care and treatment.
