The urinary system is a crucial part of the human body, and it consists of two ureters, the bladder, and the urethra. The bladder is the organ that stores urine until it is time to release it from the body. However, not everyone is lucky enough to have their urinary system work perfectly. Neurogenic bladder is a condition that affects bladder function caused by disruption in the brain, spinal cord, or nerves that go to the bladder. This condition can affect people who have suffered brain and back injuries. In this blog post, we will discuss how back and brain injuries can permanently change your bladder while exploring the various types of neurogenic bladder.
What is Neurogenic Bladder?
Neurogenic bladder occurs when there is a disruption in the communication between the brain, spinal cord, and the bladder. This condition can develop if the nerves that control the bladder are damaged due to an injury. This type of bladder dysfunction can also be caused by neurological conditions such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease, brain trauma, and dementia.
Basically, when the brain and spinal cord are damaged, the nerves that control the bladder can become dysfunctional, leading to three types of neurogenic bladder.
Types of Neurogenic Bladder
- Overactive Bladder (OAB)
Overactive bladder, is a condition where the bladder is overly sensitive and contracts too frequently. The symptoms of OAB include a sudden, strong urge to urinate, followed by an involuntary loss of urine. This can happen even when the bladder is not full or even when you are asleep. Neurogenic OAB can happen due to brain or spinal cord injuries or multiple sclerosis.
Read also: Why your bladder leaks when you cough or sneeze and how to fix it! | Stress Urinary Incontinence
https://renamalikmd.com/why-your-bladder-leaks-when-you-cough-or-sneeze-and-how-to-fix-it-stress-urinary-incontinence/
- Underactive Bladder (UAB)
Underactive bladder is a type of neurogenic bladder that occurs when the bladder muscles are weak or unable to contract, resulting in partial bladder emptying or inability to empty the bladder entirely. Commonly caused by chronic conditions such as spinal cord injuries.
- Incomplete Emptying
Incomplete emptying occurs when the bladder does not empty completely, leading to bladder infections and other complications. Incomplete emptying can be caused by a weak or malfunctioning sphincter that doesn’t open, difficulty with contractions, or obstruction in the urinary tract.
Injury Location Determines Neurogenic Bladder Type
The type of neurogenic bladder a person experiences generally depends on the location of the injury. In cases where an injury to the spine affects connections above the level of the sacral spinal cord, it will likely result in an overactive bladder with or without incomplete bladder emptying. On the other hand, injuries to the lower spine might cause underactive bladder symptoms. Neurogenic bladder stemming from brain injuries will typically result in overactive bladder symptoms.
Symptoms of Neurogenic Bladder
Neurogenic bladder symptoms vary depending on the type and severity of the injury or condition. Common symptoms include:
- Frequency or urgency of urination
- Incontinence (involuntary leakage)
- Needing to empty the bladder multiple times
- A weak or slow urinary stream
- Inability to empty the bladder entirely
- Abdominal discomfort or pain
- Infections of the urinary tract
- Kidney or bladder stones
Read also: Bladder problems after stroke: Insights into neurogenic bladder
https://renamalikmd.com/bladder-problems-after-stroke-insights-into-neurogenic-bladder/
Managing Neurogenic Bladder
If you suspect you have neurogenic bladder, see a urologist, who is a specialist in urinary systems. The urologist will perform some tests, such as urodynamic studies, to evaluate the bladder’s function and determine the type and severity of neurogenic bladder.
Treatment options for neurogenic bladder can vary based on the cause, severity, and type of the condition. In general, treating neurogenic bladder involves techniques to help enure bladder empties completely and in a timely manner. Some treatment options include:
- Medications – Medications such as antimuscarinic and Botox that can help reduce bladder contractions.
- Self-Catheterization – Intermittent catheterization helps drain the bladder and reduce the risk of infections.
- Surgery – In extreme cases, surgery may be necessary to improve bladder function and prevent complications.
Conclusion
Neurogenic bladder is a condition that adversely affects the bladder, which can occur when there is a disruption in communication between the brain, spinal cord, or nerves that control bladder function. This condition can arise due to a variety of reasons like injuries to the brain or spinal cord. The severity and symptoms of neurogenic bladder can differ and depending on the injury location. If you’re experiencing neurogenic bladder symptoms, you should know that there is hope. Treatment methods like medication, self-catheterization, and surgery can help improve bladder function and prevent complications. It’s vital to consult with a specialist to get the best treatment plan for the neurogenic bladder.
