Underactive Bladder Syndrome (UAB) is a urological condition characterized by bladder underactivity causing difficulty in voiding, resulting in incomplete bladder emptying.[1] The International Continence Society (ICS) refers to the condition of detrusor underactivity, defined as a contraction of reduced strength and/or duration, resulting in prolonged bladder emptying and/or failure to achieve complete bladder emptying within a usual time span. Bladder underactivity may cause overdistention of the bladder, resulting in overflow incontinence. The disease has a profound impact on quality of life.
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The etiology of UAB is unclear, however It is know to have multiple possible causes. UAB symptoms are sometimes a result of neurological damage , surgery, medication side effects, and infection. In addition to these potential causes, simple aging resulting in the decline of bladder volume and elasticity may lead to UAB symptoms. This is referred to as bladder muscle sarcopenia. As the average age of people in the developed world grows, it is expected that UAB will become more common as the prevalence of this disease increases with age.
While treatment for UAB is often dependent on factors such as age, health, symptoms, and cause of the condition, it frequently includes lifestyle modification (fluid restriction, bladder retraining). Bethanechol is a common prescription medication used for treatment, bethanechol can stimulate the nerves of the bladder, making them more responsive to stimulus. With UAB, it is not uncommon to intermittently utilize catheterization. At times, a form of nerve stimulation can help remedy an underactive bladder. Surgical options are also available, a cuff or stent is placed around or in the neck of your bladder to aid the emptying and leakage of your urine. However, current therapies are imperfect and there is a strong need for new research and attention.[2]