Neurogenic Bladder Care in Greater Houston

Neurogenic bladder is lack of bladder control due to nerve damage, which can be due to numerous diseases, including multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s Disease, and diabetes. It can also be caused by an infection or injury of the brain, spinal cord, or pelvic area. Millions of Americans with one of these conditions also have neurogenic bladder.

Nerves control how the bladder stores or empties urine, and problems with these nerves cause overactive bladder (OAB), incontinence, and underactive bladder or obstructive bladder, in which the flow of urine is blocked.

Neurogenic Bladder Symptoms

Neurogenic bladder symptoms differ from person to person and depend upon the type of nerve damage the individual has. Some people with multiple sclerosis, stroke, and other conditions have symptoms of both underactive and overactive bladder.

• Urinary tract infection (UTI) – Frequent UTI is often the first symptom of neurogenic bladder.
• Incontinence – When the bladder muscles contract more than normal, it can cause sudden urges to use the bathroom and urinary leaking.
• Frequent need to urinate – Having to use the restroom more than eight times during the day and night can be a sign of neurogenic bladder.
• Urinary retention/obstruction – In cases of underactive bladder, the bladder muscles do not contract the way they should. This can cause retention of urine in the bladder or a complete inability to empty the bladder.

Causes of Neurogenic Bladder

Neurogenic bladder occurs when nerves and muscles don’t work well together. The bladder may not empty or fill correctly due to bladder muscles contracting too often (overactive bladder) or being too loose (underactive bladder). In some cases, the sphincter muscles surrounding the urethra may remain tight when you are attempting to empty your bladder.

Diagnosis and Treatment

If you’re experiencing signs of neurogenic bladder, the Urology specialists at Kelsey-Seybold Clinic in Houston can help diagnose you through a number of methods, including urinalysis and a bladder scan.

Treatment for neurogenic bladder may include pelvic floor exercises, dietary changes, use of a catheter, and medication.