Information for patients wondering, “What are the side effects of Botox for overactive bladder?” in our Woodstock office

Botox is a medication often most recognized for its cosmetic uses. This beneficial treatment actually has roots in the medical treatment of eye disorders. Since its development, this injectable medication has been found to have power to improve a number of issues far beyond unwanted lines and wrinkles. Many women who have heard that Botox can help reduce symptoms of overactive bladder ask, “What are the side effects of Botox treatment for bladder problems?” In our offices in Woodstock, Lake Forest, and Park City, we carefully explain all aspects of bladder control treatments to our patients. Here, we will discuss some of the common side effects and risks of Botox for bladder problems.

side effects of Botox for overactive bladder in our Woodstock office

Botox is a form of botulinum toxin A, which, when injected into muscles, relaxes them. For bladder problems, Botox can:

  • Reduce the strong urges to urinate that accompany overactive bladder. Accidental wetting and leaking, and frequency of urination are decreased with this type of treatment.
  • Treat leakage in overactive bladder in adults affected by neurological disease who do not respond to or cannot tolerate anticholinergic medication.

As with other uses of Botox, there are risks associated with urological treatment with this medication. The most common include:

  • Urinary tract infection
  • Blood in the urine (hematuria)
  • Difficulty or inability to empty the bladder
  • Fatigue
  • Insomnia

Of the various side effects, urinary retention requires special consideration. The risk of urinary retention is discussed before treatment, along with other risks.

Before treatment, Dr. Gandhi performs a comprehensive consultation in which medical history is discussed. During this visit, it is important to discuss any allergies to medications or any of the ingredients of Botox. Botox may not be the most suitable treatment for those with an active urinary tract infection or for those who cannot sufficiently empty their bladder. Patients who are reluctant to perform catheterization may not be well suited to Botox treatment for overactive bladder.

Your physician is very familiar with the benefits and potential risks of Botox treatment. At Partners in Pelvic Health at North Shore Urogynecology, we create personalized care plans based on each patient’s needs. Dr. Gandhi’s main centers are located in Woodstock in Park city. Our McHenry County location is near the towns of Crystal Lake. Lake County location is located between Waukegan and Gurnee. Contact one of our offices in Chicago suburbs today for your consultation with Dr. Gandhi, and discover how to handle your bladder problem.

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Sanjay Gandhi, M.D.

Sanjay Gandhi, M.D.
Partners in Pelvic Health North Shore Urogynecology

Conditions affecting the female pelvis are the focus at Partners in Pelvic Health North Shore Urogynecology. We provide effective solutions for these problems from our offices at Park City, Woodstock, and Lake Forest in Illinois.

Our team is headed by Sanjay Gandhi, MD, Urogynecologist. Dr. Gandhi’s specialized education included a residency in gynecology and obstetrics at Northwestern University and a three-year urogynecology fellowship. He is among a few in the country to pass the first examination in Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery (URPS) of The American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. He also teaches healthcare students.