Around 300 million people worldwide suffer from bladder problems. These include bladder control issues like leakage, urinary incontinence and urinary retention, urinary tract infections (UTIs) and chronic kidney disease.
Bladder problems affect men and women of all ages and can impact participation in daily activities, sexual health and emotional well-being.
The signs and symptoms of bladder problems differ from one person to the next.
Symptoms are also affected by the type of bladder problem and its severity.
The common signs and symptoms of bladder problems are:
- urine leakage;
- the need to urinate more than eight times per day and more than two times per night;
- the urge to urinate on the spur of the moment;
- pain before, during or after urinating;
- cloudy and bloody urine;
- passing only small amounts of urine;
- urine that smells strongly;
- pain during sexual intercourse; and
- lower abdominal pain or pressure.
Murray Hewlett, chief executive officer of Affinity Health, advises people experiencing urinary issues to consult a doctor or a urologist.
Bladder problems are caused by a bacterial infection that enters the urinary tract through, including:
- sexual intercourse (particularly with new partners);
- inadequate urination hygiene;
- tampons, douches and spermicides; and
- bowel incontinence. of the bowel
Other potential causes of bladder problems that does not involve infection include:
- ageing;
- constipation;
- being overweight;
- a chronic, long-lasting cough;
- a bladder lining defect;
- reaction to allergens;
- autoimmune response; and
- chemical exposure.
Tips for preventing bladder problems
The best way to avoid bladder problems is to practise good personal hygiene and stay hydrated.
In addition to the above, Affinity Health recommends the following:
- consume a nutritious diet rich in fresh, whole foods;
- exercise frequently;
- quit smoking;
- keep a healthy weight; and
- reduce your intake of bladder irritants such as caffeine, acidic foods and alcohol.
