Parkinson's Disease and Overactive Bladder: Symptoms, Treatment Options, and Further Information
Living with Parkinson's Disease and Overactive Bladder: A Guide
For those living with Parkinson's disease (PD), managing the condition's symptoms is a daily challenge. One such symptom that affects around 80 in 100 people with PD is overactive bladder (OAB) [1]. This article aims to provide an overview of OAB, its prevalence in PD, and potential treatment options.
What is Overactive Bladder (OAB)?
OAB is a common condition that causes a sudden, pressing need to urinate more frequently than usual, often more than eight times a day. The main symptom is urinary urgency, which can lead to involuntary leakage [2].
OAB in PD: Prevalence and Associations
Studies show that between 27% to 80% of people with PD experience lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), which include OAB [1]. Research suggests that a decline in dopamine levels, a neurotransmitter affected by PD, is associated with OAB in PD patients [3].
Age and OAB
Age plays a significant role in the likelihood of experiencing OAB. People aged between 65 and 74 are more likely to experience OAB [4]. Additionally, symptoms of OAB may worsen at night, leading to frequent nighttime urination, a condition known as nocturia.
Diagnosing OAB
Doctors will first rule out other causes before diagnosing a person with OAB. They may test for urinary infections or prostate problems and ask the person to keep a bladder diary recording how much liquid they drink and when and how much they urinate [5].
Treatment Options for OAB in PD
- Behavioral Therapy: Pelvic floor muscle exercises and urge suppression techniques have been shown to be effective in managing OAB symptoms. Studies have found that behavioral therapy is as effective as medication like solifenacin for improving OAB symptoms in PD patients [2][5].
- Medications: Antimuscarinic drugs like solifenacin are commonly used to reduce bladder overactivity. However, these medications may have side effects that could impact quality of life in PD patients, such as dry mouth and falls [5].
- Surgical Options: In refractory cases where conservative and medical treatments fail, surgeries such as sacral nerve stimulation, urinary diversion, cystoplasty (bladder enlargement), and rarely bladder removal might be considered to control symptoms [4].
In Conclusion
Managing OAB is an important aspect of living with PD. Initial treatment typically involves behavioral therapies given their efficacy and lower side-effect profile. Medications and surgical interventions are additional options depending on symptom severity and treatment response. It is essential for individuals experiencing OAB symptoms or any urinary issues to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment [1][2][4][5].
[1] National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (2021). Parkinson's Disease Information Page. Retrieved from https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/All-Disorders/Parkinsons-Disease-Information-Page
[2] Chaudhuri, K. R., Schapira, A. H., & Lees, A. J. (2006). Parkinson's disease. The Lancet, 368(9548), 1519-1530.
[3] Chaudhuri, K. R., Schapira, A. H., & Lees, A. J. (2006). Parkinson's disease. The Lancet, 368(9548), 1519-1530.
[4] Kessler, D. J., & Fowler, C. J. (2013). Management of urinary dysfunction in Parkinson's disease. Current Opinion in Neurology, 26(4), 427-433.
[5] Kessler, D. J., & Fowler, C. J. (2013). Management of urinary dysfunction in Parkinson's disease. Current Opinion in Neurology, 26(4), 427-433.
- Scientific studies indicate that overactive bladder (OAB) is a common medical condition in individuals living with Parkinson's disease (PD), affecting between 27% to 80% of PD patients.
- The science behind OAB in PD patients suggests that a decline in dopamine levels, a neurotransmitter affected by PD, is associated with OAB.
- In the health and wellness field, it's essential to recognize the impact of neurological disorders like Parkinson's on urinary health, and to understand the prevalence of OAB in PD, as well as the potential treatment options available, such as behavioral therapy, medications, and in some cases, surgery.
