If you leak a little urine when you cough or sneeze, or have some severe urges to get to the bathroom, or even if you pack pads in your purse when you go out, you may think these things are normal.
Maybe you don’t, but you’re too embarrassed to talk about it.
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In any event, you are not alone. These scenarios are very common. Many women, however, think these things are normal. But these issues will not always remain the same and will likely worsen as you get older.
In fact, they can become severely distressing. That’s why it is important to understand what’s happening and address your concerns with a doctor.
There are a number of issues that can cause bladder issues to worsen, and sometimes carbonated or caffeinated drinks are the biggest cause.
A number of bladder problems involve unration, but not all do. Those that don’t can be harder to identify and may signify something more severe. If you’re experiencing one of the following, go and see your doctor.
Bladder pain: Pain just behind the pubic bone, or in the urethra, could be the result of a urinary tract infection (UTI). But it could also be something called bladder pain syndrome (also called interstitial cystitis), which needs to be checked out.
Blood in urine: A number of dangerous conditions may cause blood to appear in the urine. Diagnosis and treatment from a doctor are necessary.
Cloudy or strong-smelling urine: This could indicate issues with the kidney. However, it could also be related to diet.
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Urgency: If every trip to the bathroom feels like a race, get evaluated. It’s possible the urgency is being caused by contractions from a neurologic condition loke a stroke, spinal trauma, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, or diabetes.
Frequency: If you’re going more than ten times per day, you want to see a doctor to determine why.
Any noticeable change in bladder behavior warrants a trip to the doctor, including leakage. Catching an issue early enough can help with treatment or prevent further and more severe trouble.