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Overactive Bladder (OAB)

Comprehensive evaluation of sudden, frequent urinary urges with or without leakage.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Üroloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Overactive Bladder (OAB)?

Overactive bladder (OAB) is a symptom syndrome consisting of urgency (sudden need to void), frequency (>8 voids/day), nocturia (≥2 night-time voids), and possible urge incontinence, in the absence of infection or other obvious pathology. According to the ICS (International Continence Society) definition, the diagnosis is clinical; urodynamics are not mandatory.

It is classified as OAB-dry (without leakage) and OAB-wet (with urge incontinence). Underlying detrusor overactivity involves parasympathetic hyperreactivity, increased urothelial sensitivity, and reduced cortical inhibition.

Lifestyle changes, bladder training, and pharmacological therapy are applied in a stepwise fashion.

Symptoms

Sudden and overwhelming urge to urinate
Voiding more than 8 times per day
Waking 2 or more times at night to void (nocturia)
Urge incontinence (in OAB-wet form)
Restriction of activities, travel, and social life

Risk Factors

Advanced age (in both sexes)
Obesity
Caffeine and alcohol intake
Chronic constipation
Neurological disorders
Menopause and estrogen deficiency in women

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Frequency and urgency that affect daily life
  • Sleep disturbance due to nocturia
  • OAB symptoms together with hematuria (workup for tumor)
  • Failure to respond to first-line treatment
  • Bladder symptoms together with neurological disease

Treatment Methods

01
Lifestyle: caffeine restriction, fluid management, weight loss
02
Bladder training: gradual lengthening of voiding intervals
03
Pelvic floor exercises
04
Antimuscarinic (solifenacin, darifenacin): once daily, side effects of dry mouth and constipation
05
Beta-3 agonist (mirabegron): alternative to antimuscarinics, with cardiovascular monitoring
06
Intravesical botulinum toxin injection, SNM: second–third-line therapy

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Üroloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.