Neurogenic Voiding Disorders
What is a Neurogenic Voiding Disorder?
Neurogenic voiding disorders, also called bladder emptying problems, are difficulties with urinating due to damage or over-activity in the nervous system. People with these conditions may experience difficulty starting the stream, a weak or wavering stream, or a frequent need to go to the bathroom.
Neurogenic voiding disorders can cause chronic urinary problems and can have serious health effects. If left untreated, bladder pressures can build to dangerous levels, causing kidney damage. Fortunately, with appropriate treatment, many of these conditions can be managed.
Types of Neurogenic Voiding Disorders
The types of Neurogenic Voiding Disorders include:
- Overactive bladder (OAB)
- Bladder-sphincter dyssynergia
- Neurogenic bladder due to trauma and/or neurological diseases such as stroke or multiple sclerosis
Overactive bladder (OAB) is the most common type of Neurogenic Voiding Disorder. OAB is caused by abnormal nerve signaling that impairs bladder function. OAB causes a strong and sudden need to urinate, often followed by large amounts of urine. People with OAB may also experience urinary incontinence, frequent trips to the bathroom, and urgency or waking at night to urinate.
Bladder-sphincter dyssynergia is another type of Neurogenic Voiding Disorder. It is a condition in which the muscles of the bladder and the urethral sphincter work against each other and do not cooperate. This may cause difficulty urinating, difficulty starting the stream, a weak or wavering stream, and frequent urination. People may also experience a sensation of incomplete emptying.
Neurogenic bladder due to trauma and/or neurological diseases such as stroke or multiple sclerosis is also a type of Neurogenic Voiding Disorder. This type is caused by an interruption of the nerve signals from the brain to the bladder. Symptoms can vary greatly depending on the severity of the injury or underlying condition. Common symptoms include difficulty starting the stream, a weak or wavering stream, and frequent urge to urinate.
Treatment for Neurogenic Voiding Disorders
Treatment for Neurogenic Voiding Disorders may include medications, behavioral therapies, or bladder or muscle surgeries. It is important to find the right treatment plan for each individual as different treatments may work for different patients. Some treatments may include:
- Anticholinergic medications to relax the bladder and urethra
- Biofeedback to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles
- Bladder training to help control when you go to the bathroom
- Surgery to remove bladder stones or to treat prolapse
It is important to work with your healthcare provider to find the best treatment, as not all treatments may work for everyone.