Overactive Bladder
Overactive bladder is a condition where your bladder contracts before it is full or when one is not ready. This could mean not being able to hold on until you get to the toilet and at times you may leak urine on the way.
Botox Treatment for Overactive Bladder
Botulinum toxin A or Botox, a drug more well known for wrinkle treatment, is also used in the treatment of Overactive Bladder (OAB).
Botox is a natural, purified protein which has the ability to relax muscles. So when Botox is used for OAB, it works by relaxing the bladder muscles.
Your relaxed bladder muscles reduce OAB symptoms like;
- bladder contractions (spasms),
- the occurrence of urine leakage,
- the feeling of needing to go to the toilet very suddenly, and
- how often you feel the need to pass urine.
How Botox is Administered
Botox treatment is administered as a day procedure. The Botox is injected in tiny amounts into the muscle of the bladder. The whole procedure is very quick and after the treatment, the bladder should be emptied and you are then discharged.
Efficacy of Botox Treatment for Overactive Bladder
Botox does not work immediately but begins to work over several days to two weeks. It is also not a permanent solution, it will last to about 6-8 months. Some women only need a single treatment while others require repeated treatments
Risk with Botox Treatment
Sometimes Botox works too well, and the bladder has difficulty emptying. In rare occasions it may require a doctor to pass a catheter into the bladder in order to empty it and can last until the Botox wears off.
If you are experiencing symptoms for overactive bladder it you would be advised to see your general practitioner and possibly obtain a referral to see Dr Gailani at omargailani.com.au