Overactive bladder is a characterized by the sudden, intense urge to urinate, and by leaking urine while coughing or sneezing. The condition is treated through behavior modification, physical therapy and dietary changes in less severe cases. However, surgery may be required.

Behavior Modification

Bladder training is used to teach patients how to control the urge to urinate. It also helps lengthen time between trips to the restroom. Patients are also taught to schedule restroom trips throughout the day to get the body on a routine.

Exercises

Pelvic floor exercises help patients control the muscles that are used during urination. Physicians may also use electroshock therapy to stimulate pelvic muscles.

Dietary Changes

Beverages with a high content of sugar, spices, caffeine or alcohol can overstimulate the bladder. Therefore, physicians recommend reducing the intake of these beverages, or eliminating them all together.

Medication and Devices

According to the Mayo Clinic, anticholinergics and the antidepressant Torfranil can be prescribed to calm the bladder. Pessary rings and urethral inserts are often placed into a woman's vagina to prevent urine from leaking. These devices can be inserted and removed by the patient on a daily basis.

Surgery

According to the Mayo Clinic, sling procedures and bladder neck suspension surgery are commonly used to treat overactive bladder. Sling procedures help to keep the urethra closed while coughing or sneezing. Bladder neck suspension is used to provide support to the urethra and bladder neck muscle.

Source:

Medline Plus: Urinary Incontinence

Urinary Incontinence Surgeries

Urinary Incontinence Treatment