Neurogenic Bladder

Neurogenic bladder is a condition that occurs when either nerves or the brain stops effective communication with the muscles in the bladder. Two types of bladder control problems are associated with neurogenic bladder. Depending upon the nerves and type of damage the bladder becomes either overactive or underactive.

Symptoms differ from person to person. It depends on the type of damage the person has. Some may have both overactive and underactive symptoms.

• Unable to control urination
• Dribbling urinary stream
• Frequent urination
• Urge to urine
• Painful while urinating

Several muscles and nerves work together to hold urine in the bladder. When these nerves and muscles are damaged by illness or injury, they may not be able to tighten or relax when needed. For some, nerves and muscles don’t work together as a result their bladder doesn’t fill or empty correctly.

Bladder muscles may be overactive and squeeze more frequently than usual before the bladder is full.

Bladder muscle may be underactive and will not squeeze even after the bladder is full and won’t empty fully.

For some, neurogenic bladder condition exists by birth. Birth defects and various medical conditions that may cause this condition include:

• Spina bifida
• Sacral agenesis
• Cerebral palsy
• Stroke
• Parkinson’s disease
• Spinal injuries/surgeries
• Erectile dysfunction
• Accidents
• Tumors

Neurogenic bladder symptoms affect your quality of life. You may find it difficult to go out and might cancel all the activities and withdraw from their lives. This also may affect your relationships. This condition may make you feel tired, depressed, anxious, and aloof. This can also lead to skin problems or infections.

Diagnosis of neurogenic bladder involves both the nervous system and bladder. Therefore, different tests are conducted to determine the health of both.

• Medical history
• Physical exam
• Bladder diary
• Pad test
• Urine culture
• Bladder scan
• Cystoscopy
• Urodynamic testing
• Imaging tests such as x-rays and CT scan

Neurogenic bladder condition is a very serious problem, if it is watched carefully and treated in the right way then improvement is seen in the patient’s quality of life.

Clean intermittent catheterization, medications, Botox, bladder augmentation, ileal conduit, lifestyle changes.

It is better to use undergarments that are good absorbent, pads, panty shields, adult diapers as they help in preventing wetness and odours and also protect the skin.