Living with an overactive bladder (OAB) poses all kinds of challenges. From attending social outings to getting a good night’s sleep, many aspects of your life may be complicated by frequent feelings to urinate. If you keep a few simple strategies in mind, however, you can regain independence and take back control. In addition to discussing concerns with your primary care provider or a urology specialist, try the following tips to manage your overactive bladder. 

3 Tips for Coping With an Overactive Bladder

1. Limit Fluid Intake  

If your bladder is especially active at night, stop drinking fluids at 6 p.m. to ensure your bladder is empty by the time you go to bed. Also, avoid aggravating your OAB symptoms by abstaining from alcohol and caffeine, as both may worsen symptoms. 

2. Inform Coworkers 

Discussing health conditions with your coworkers may be uncomfortable, but doing so may be necessary if your OAB affects performance. If you often step out of meetings, for example, your colleagues will question your judgment. Sharing information about your condition may help ease concerns.

Approximately 33 million Americans have OAB. You may not be the only one in the office affected. An informed office manager may be supportive of moving your desk closer to the restroom or permitting additional breaks throughout the workday. 

3. Use Technology

You can use a smartphone to manage OAB. Dozens of ingenious apps provide help for those with the condition, including mobile applications like SitOrSquat, which locates nearby restrooms, to digital diaries for tracking symptoms. Use the UroToday Bladder Diary app to help you identify potential triggers. 

If you have an overactive bladder, turn to Midwest Urogynecology for diagnosis and treatment. Located in St. Louis, MO, this practice specializes in treating conditions affecting pelvic floor organs. They perform a broad range of procedures for women at all stages of life at their state-of-the-art facility. To explore all their services, visit their website. To make an appointment, call (314) 596-9955.