Neurogenic bladder is a condition that affects the normal functioning of the nervous system. Due to disturbances in the nerve control of the bladder, the process of urination becomes irregular. This means that the muscles and sphincters of the bladder are unable to perform their normal function.
What Are the Problems Associated with Neurogenic Bladder?
Neurogenic bladder problems can include:
• Urinary incontinence: This occurs when the bladder empties uncontrollably, resulting in urine leakage.
- • Difficulty in urination: There can be difficulties in the ability to contract or relax for urination.
- • Urinary retention: The inability to empty the bladder properly, leading to involuntary urine leakage.
• Urinary tract infections: Incomplete emptying of the bladder increases the risk of infection.
• Stone formation: Urine retention and infections can cause the formation of bladder stones.
What Are the Causes of Neurogenic Bladder?
Neurogenic bladder can have several causes, including:
• Spinal cord injuries: Spinal cord injuries can disrupt nerve transmission and lead to neurogenic bladder.
- • Multiple sclerosis (MS): MS is an autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system and can cause neurogenic bladder problems.
• Stroke: After a stroke, damage to the brain can make it difficult for nerve signals to reach the bladder.
- • Spina bifida: Spina bifida is a birth defect affecting spinal development and can have implications for the nervous system.
• Diabetes: Diabetes can contribute to the development of neurogenic bladder by increasing the risk of nerve damage.
What Are the Symptoms of Neurogenic Bladder?
The symptoms of neurogenic bladder can include:
• Urinary incontinence or difficulty in urinary retention
- • Frequent urination or nocturia (waking up at night to urinate)
• Straining or pain during urination
- • Sensation of incomplete bladder emptying
- • Frequent urinary tract infections
• Sudden and involuntary loss of urinary control
How Does Neurogenic Bladder Affect Our Lives?
Neurogenic bladder can significantly impact daily life. Here are some effects:
• Social impact: Urinary incontinence or sudden urges to urinate can cause discomfort and embarrassment in social interactions.
- • Psychological effects: Neurogenic bladder can lead to loss of self-confidence, depression, anxiety, and social isolation.
- • Limitations in daily activities: Due to the risk of urinary incontinence, individuals may need to restrict certain activities in their normal lives.
• Urinary tract infections: Incomplete bladder emptying increases the frequency of urinary tract infections.
How Is Neurogenic Bladder Diagnosed?
The following methods may be used to diagnose neurogenic bladder:
• Medical history and physical examination: The doctor may review the patient's medical history and symptoms to assess the condition and perform a physical examination.
• Urine analysis: Analyzing a urine sample can help detect urinary tract infections or other potential problems.
- • Ultrasound: Ultrasound can be used to assess bladder volume and urine retention.
• Urodynamic tests: Urodynamic tests are used to evaluate the function of bladder muscles and sphincters.
• Imaging tests: Imaging tests such as computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be performed to detect abnormalities in the nervous system.
How Is Neurogenic Bladder Treated?
The treatment of neurogenic bladder varies depending on the severity of symptoms and underlying causes. It typically requires a multidisciplinary approach involving specialists such as urologists, neurologists, or physiotherapists. Treatment options may include medication therapy, catheterization, bladder training, and botulinum toxin injection. Surgical intervention may be considered for more severe cases.
What Are the Treatment Approaches for Neurogenic Bladder?
The treatment approaches for neurogenic bladder may include:
• Medication: Medications can be used to regulate the urinary process. For example, drugs that relax the muscles or promote bladder contractions may be prescribed.
- • Catheterization: Self-catheterization involves the use of a catheter to ensure complete bladder emptying. This method is taught to enable regular emptying of the bladder.
- • Bladder training: Bladder training involves establishing regular voiding habits and employing techniques to aid urinary retention.
• Botulinum toxin injection: Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections can reduce muscle spasms in the bladder and improve urinary control.
• Surgical intervention: In some cases, surgical options may be considered for the treatment of neurogenic bladder. For example, surgery may be necessary to increase bladder capacity or redirect urinary flow.
What Happens If Neurogenic Bladder Is Left Untreated?
If left untreated, neurogenic bladder can lead to the following problems:
• Urinary tract infections: Incomplete bladder emptying increases the susceptibility to urinary tract infections.
- • Stone formation: Urine retention can lead to the formation of bladder stones.
- • Kidney damage: Urine retention and urinary tract infections can harm the kidneys and cause disturbances in kidney function.
• Social and psychological issues: Urinary incontinence or difficulty in urination can negatively affect a person's quality of life and lead to social isolation, loss of self-confidence, and depression.
Can Neurogenic Bladder Be Cured?
While neurogenic bladder cannot be completely cured, treatment methods can help control symptoms and improve quality of life. Depending on the treatment, symptoms may lessen or become more manageable. Treatment options are determined based on the severity of symptoms and the individual's condition. With appropriate treatment, the effects of neurogenic bladder can be minimized, and daily life can be made more comfortable.