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Take a break from Overactive Bladder...

Welcome to OAB.ie, the Irish web resource for people living with Overactive Bladder (OAB),

a common condition affecting hundreds of thousands of people in this country. 

OAB is common. It is not due simply to poor health or getting older but is caused by the bladder muscle, known as the detrusor muscle, contracting involuntarily. It affects approximately 350,000 people over the age of 40 in Ireland.7 



 

Before you begin, it is important to know that there are many different causes of bladder problems. If you have not been diagnosed with OAB it is essential you do not try to diagnose or manage a bladder problem without speaking with your doctor.

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Common symptoms of OAB include:

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Urgency

A sudden, strong urge to empty the bladder quickly

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Frequency

Going to the toilet more often than you did before

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Nocturia

Being woken at night several times to go to the toilet

OAB can have symptoms of urinary urgency incontinence. This happens because the bladder urgency is so overwhelming that there may be some involuntary loss of urine before you reach the toilet. 


 Bladder Control Questionnaire

Bladder Control Questionnaire

If you think you may be experiencing a bladder control problem, try the questionnaire.

 


A common problem

Overactive bladder is common. It is not due simply to poor health or getting older but is caused by the bladder muscle, known as the detrusor muscle contracting involuntarily. It affects approximately 350,000 people over the age of 40 in Ireland.7

16% of the Irish population

over 40 may be affected by OAB7

 Who can help?
Who can help?

It is very important to discuss your symptoms with a doctor, nurse or pharmacist so that they can assess you properly and determine the extent of your problem. It may help to complete the 3-day bladder diary and discuss the results with a healthcare professional.


Treatments
Treatments

There are several treatment options that can help reduce symptoms to a manageable level. Your doctor/nurse will determine the most appropriate treatment options for you.

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Resources

If you would like to print out information about OAB we have included downloadable booklets for you below. These can be useful if you want to keep this information close to hand or share it with someone you know!