An overactive bladder can cause a patient to feel isolated and embarrassed. This condition results in the unwanted urge to urinate, and may lead to incontinence. This uncontrollable condition can cause problems in both personal and business relationships and can directly impact one’s quality of life. Thankfully, when overactive bladder problems occur, medical professionals such as Dr. Gandhi of Partners in Pelvic Health North Shore Urogynecology are here to help!
Dr. Gandhi understands the embarrassment women may feel when they suffer from this condition and knows that it can disrupt everyday activities. Many women who are in their 60’s and older think that urinary incontinence is just a part of aging, but it is not. Knowing the symptoms and undergoing treatment can restore self-confidence in those who experience it.
Typical symptoms of overactive bladder include:
- Uncontrollable urge to urinate
- Inability to control urination
- Urge incontinence
- Involuntary urine loss
- Frequent urination
- Waking up at least twice a night to urinate, also known as nocturia
Overactive bladder is caused by detrusor overactivity. Within the wall of the bladder lies a muscle known as the detrusor urinae muscle. This muscle is meant to relax to hold urine in the bladder and contract to allow the flow of urine. When this muscle contracts or spasms more than expected and outside the control of the individual, they may begin to experience a condition known as detrusor overactivity. This results in overactive bladder symptoms.
After an examination and diagnostic tests, Dr. Gandhi can provide a firm diagnosis of overactive bladder. Once this has been achieved, patients are able to seek treatments. Treatments vary from behavior interventions, medications, injections, sacral nerve stimulation, to surgery. Surgery may include increasing the bladder’s capacity, or, in severe cases, removing the bladder and replacing it with a stoma.
Dr. Gandhi of Partners in Pelvic Health North Shore Urogynecology can assist patients with the improvement of their day-to-day life by addressing embarrassing conditions such as overactive bladder. Thanks to the variety of solutions, patients have a choice in what treatment works best for their condition, and can work with their urogynecologist in determining the most beneficial intervention to improve their quality of life.
Commercial Insurance Coverage for Urgent PC
Patients who have been considering treatment for an overactive bladder or urge incontinence with a neuromodulation device such as Urgent PC will now be able to enjoy coverage through their Commercial Insurance. Urgent PC, known as PTNS, is a minimally invasive treatment done in-office as an alternative treatment to behavioral therapy and medications. This is a wonderful announcement as it allows patients with overactive bladders and urge incontinence to receive insurance coverage through Commercial Insurance to fully enjoy the benefits of this treatment without being inhibited by the cost.