Neurogenic Bladder

About Neurogenic Bladder

Neurogenic bladder occurs when the bladder does not function properly due to an issue with the brain, spinal cord, or nerves. These conditions can damage your bladder's nerves and your capacity to urinate (pee).

People with neurogenic bladder:

  • Are unable to control their urination (pee).

  • Numerous urinations throughout the day or night.

  • Feel the need to urinate immediately, but are unable to.

  • Have incontinence (accidental pee leaks from the bladder) due to a lack of urination sensation.

  • Possibility of urinary retention (not able to fully empty out the bladder). Consequently, urinary tract infections result (UTIs).


Neurogenic Bladder Causes

  • Chemotherapy has been linked to neurogenic bladder.

  • Radiation treatment to the pelvic region. The region between your legs and abdomen (belly).

  • Spinal cord, brain, or pelvic region tumours.

  • Spinal cord damage.

  • Surgical intervention in the pelvic region.


Diagnosing Neurogenic Bladder

To determine if you suffer from neurogenic bladder, Dr. Shabana will:

  • Discuss with you your medical history.

  • Ask you about your urinary health history.

  • Perform a physical exam on you.

  • Request an ultrasound of the urinary bladder. This technique employs sound waves to create pictures of the bladder. During this process, you will urinate, followed by an ultrasound to determine the amount of urine that remains in your bladder. This examination does not involve radiation.

  • Request that you record the time and volume of urine you pass for three consecutive days. If this is necessary, Dr. Shabana will provide further information.

Dr. Shabana may also prescribe further tests, such as:

  • A renal ultrasound.

  • A urine analysis or urine culture. These tests examine your urine for infection-causing microorganisms (such as bacteria).

  • A urodynamic assessment. This is a test to determine how well your bladder is functioning.

  • A cystoscopy. During this operation, Dr. Shabana will utilise a scope (a hollow tube with a little light at the end). They examine your bladder and urethra in more detail (the tube that carries urine out of your body). This is performed to detect urinary tract issues.


Treatments

The objectives of therapy for neurogenic bladder are symptom management and control. The basis for your treatment strategy will be your diagnosis. You and Dr. Shabana will discuss the appropriate treatment for you.

Possible treatments include:

  • Double voiding. To accomplish this, sit on the toilet and urinate as usual. After urinating, you should get up, re-sit down, and attempt to pee again. This may assist you in voiding your bladder.

  • Crede method. This requires applying pressure on the bladder while urinating. When urinating, make a fist with one hand and position it just below the belly button on the lower abdomen. Place the second hand on top of the fist and apply pressure. This will help you totally empty your bladder.

  • Limit your drink intake in the evening. Increasing the quantity of liquids you consume throughout the day and reducing the amount of liquids you consume in the evening will help you avoid nighttime leaks.

  • Medication for bladder relaxation

  • Pelvic floor treatment. This form of physical treatment focuses on strengthening the muscles of the pelvic floor. You will first attend therapy twice each week for six and three-quarters weeks. You will then practice the exercises you have learned at home.