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Overactive bladder (OAB) results in the sudden urges to urinate, frequent trips to the washroom, and, in some cases, may lead to leakage. These are some symptoms that can take an emotional and social toll. However, effective relief usually starts at home with small adjustments in lifestyle. Health institutions like Mayo Clinic, Verywell Health, and Cleveland Clinic underline the techniques like making adjustments in fluid intake, strengthening pelvic muscles, also known as Kegel exercise, and bladder retaining can help in reducing the symptoms. Here are nine ways to manage OAB.
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Control the timing of the fluid– One should sip regularly and avoid large amounts before bedtime to avoid nighttime calls. (Photo source: Canva)
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Maintain a bladder diary: Keep a track of your drinks, leakage frequency, and bathroom visits. This will help in identifying a pattern. (Photo source: Canva)
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Pelvic floor exercise: Doing Kegel exercises strengthens the muscles and helps in stopping leaks and restricting the urgency. (Photo source: Canva)
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Maintaining a healthy weight range: Over weight can put pressure on the bladder; even a fair amount of weight loss can bring relief from OAB symptoms. (Photo source: Canva)
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Avoid things that affect the bladder– Reduce consumption of alcohol, spicy foods, carbonated drinks, caffeine, and artificial sweeteners that can result in urgency. (Photo source: Canva)
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Eat more fibre to avoid constipation-Bladder condition can get worsened because of constipation. One should increase fiber consumption to ease the symptoms. (Photo source: Canva)
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Stop smoking and be physically active– To support bladder health and gain overall control, do regular exercises and quit smoking. (Photo source: Canva)
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Adopt bladder training– Gradually increase the duration between urination. Train your bladder to hold more and reduce the need for urgency. (Photo source: Canva)
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Take medical aid when needed: If these changes do not help, then consult with a doctor for medications. (Photo source: Canva)

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