Signs and Symptoms of Neurogenic Bladder
Definition
Urine is held in the bladder and released based on signals that the nerves send to the muscles. These signals are sent from the bladder to the brain. Then the brain sends the message to tighten or relax to the bladder muscles. When the nerves that deliver these messages to the brain and muscles of the bladder do not work properly, it is known as neurogenic bladder.
Causes
Neurogenic bladder is caused by nerve damage that can result from accidents and medical conditions. Motor vehicle accidents or other traumatic accidents that damage the spinal cord or brain can cause this type of nerve damage. It can also be caused by diabetes, genetic nerve problems, acute infections and heavy metal poisoning.
Signs and Symptoms of Neurogenic Bladder
The signs and symptoms of neurogenic bladder affect the urinary system. You may experience urinary urgency, urinary frequency, urinary incontinence, an inability to tell when your bladder is full and a smaller volume of urine each time you empty your bladder. This condition can also cause kidney stones and urinary tract infection, which can be signaled by pelvic or abdominal pain and several urinary symptoms.
Diagnosis
There are several ways to determine if someone has neurogenic bladder. An electroencephalogram (EEG) can be done to determine the electrical activity in the brain. X-rays of the spine and head can determine if any damage has been done to the brain or spinal cord. Imaging tests can be used to detrmine if there is any damage to the urinary system. A diagnostic test that involves filling the bladder with fluid to see if it empties completely can also aid doctors in making a diagnosis of this condition.
Treatment
Treatment for this condition is based on the cause of the nerve damage and your age, medical history and health condition. Antibiotics may be administered on a regular basis to prevent the infections associated with this condition. You may have to insert a catheter into the bladder at regular intervals so that it can be emptied completely. An artificial sphincter can also be used to treat this condition. This involves placing a cuff around the bladder neck. This cuff is inflated to prevent urine leakage and urinary incontinence and is deflated when you have to urinate.