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Overactive Bladder
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Kidneys Urinary System

Overactive Bladder

Overactive bladder is a condition characterized by the involuntary squeezing of the bladder at inappropriate times, often leading to loss of bladder control.

Symptoms

You may have overactive bladder if you experience two or more of the following symptoms:

  • Urination eight or more times a day or two or more times at night
  • A sudden, strong need to urinate immediately
  • Leaking urine after a sudden, strong urge to urinate

Causes and Management

This condition may also involve incontinence, or a loss of bladder control. While the cause is often unknown, it can be triggered by nerve problems, excessive fluid intake, or high caffeine consumption.

Treatment and Side Effects

Doctors may prescribe medication to calm the muscles and nerves, which may be administered as a pill, liquid, or patch. These medications can cause side effects such as dry eyes, dry mouth, and constipation. To manage these effects:

  • Use eye drops to keep eyes moist.
  • Chew sugarless gum or suck on sugarless hard candy for dry mouth.
  • Take small sips of water throughout the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Bladder training (gradually increasing intervals between voids), scheduled voiding (e.g., every 2–3 hours), limiting caffeine and alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight, and practicing pelvic‑floor exercises can all help control symptoms. How do antimuscarinic medications work and what are common side effects?::They block muscarinic receptors in the bladder wall, decreasing involuntary contractions. Common side effects include dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, and sometimes confusion, especially in older adults. When should I seek urgent care for overactive bladder symptoms?::Seek immediate care if you develop sudden urinary retention, fever, blood in the urine, severe pain, or if incontinence is accompanied by a sudden change in bladder function. Can a bladder diary help manage symptoms, and how should I keep one?::Yes. Record the time of each void, the volume (if known), the urgency level (e.g., mild, moderate, strong), any leakage episodes, and fluid intake. Reviewing the diary with your clinician can guide treatment adjustments.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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