Bladder Overactivity: Symptoms, Treatments, and Medication Concerns

Q: Bladder Overactivity: Symptoms, Treatments, and Medication Concerns

Hello： 1. What kind of maintenance or exercise can I do to improve these symptoms? --> Maintain a normal lifestyle, eat a light diet, and ensure adequate hydration. 2. I often experience unexplained episodes of rapid heartbeat. Could the medications Oxybut

Penis, medication issues?

Hello Doctor, this is Xiao Chen who asked a question a few days ago.
I reported discomfort in the lower abdomen near the base of the penis, along with some mild increased urinary urgency.
Occasionally, I feel a prickling sensation in the urethra after urination.
I have already been to the hospital for a urine test (the doctor said the urine was clear), and the diagnosis was mild overactive bladder.

1.
I would like to ask what kind of maintenance or exercises can help improve these symptoms?
2.
I often experience unexplained episodes of rapid heartbeat.
Will the medications Oxybutynin 5mg and Pentoxifylline 400mg that the doctor prescribed cause palpitations as a side effect? Because after taking them yesterday, my heart was beating faster.
If there are indeed side effects, the doctor mentioned to contact him immediately.
Should I just make another appointment to see the doctor, or is there a more efficient way to notify him of this issue?
3.
Are these two medications considered antibiotics? It seems that antibiotics must be taken until completion regardless of symptom improvement.
The doctor prescribed these two medications for 14 days; should I still take them all the way to the end? Thank you, Dr.
Du, for taking the time to respond.

Xiao Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/11/03

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello:
1.
What kind of maintenance or exercise can I do to improve these symptoms? --> Maintain a normal lifestyle, eat a light diet, and ensure adequate hydration.

2.
I often experience unexplained episodes of rapid heartbeat.
Could the medications Oxybutynin 5mg and Pentoxifylline 400mg prescribed by my doctor cause palpitations as a side effect? I noticed my heart was racing after taking them yesterday.
If there are indeed side effects, the doctor advised me to contact him immediately.
Should I just make another appointment at the hospital, or is there a more efficient way to notify him about this issue? --> If you feel palpitations, it's advisable to lie down and rest, and check your pulse.
However, I have not encountered this side effect before.

3.
Are these two medications considered antibiotics? It seems that antibiotics must be taken until completion regardless of symptom improvement.
The doctor prescribed these two medications for 14 days; should I still take them all the way to the end? --> They are not antibiotics.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2021/11/03

More Info

Hello, 小陳,
Thank you for your questions regarding bladder overactivity and the medications you are currently taking. I understand that you are experiencing discomfort in the lower abdomen near the base of the penis, along with increased urinary urgency and occasional sensations of burning in the urethra. It’s good to hear that you have already consulted a physician and that your urine tests came back normal, leading to a diagnosis of mild bladder overactivity.

1. Lifestyle Modifications and Exercises
To manage symptoms of bladder overactivity, there are several lifestyle modifications and exercises you can consider:
- Bladder Training: This involves gradually increasing the time between urinations to help train your bladder to hold more urine. Start by delaying urination for a few minutes when you feel the urge, and gradually increase the interval.

- Pelvic Floor Exercises (Kegel Exercises): Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles can help improve bladder control. To perform Kegel exercises, identify the muscles you use to stop urination. Contract these muscles for a few seconds, then relax. Aim for three sets of 10 repetitions each day.

- Dietary Changes: Certain foods and beverages can irritate the bladder. Consider reducing caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, and artificial sweeteners, which may exacerbate symptoms.

- Hydration: While it’s important to stay hydrated, try to manage your fluid intake to avoid excessive urgency. Drinking smaller amounts throughout the day rather than large quantities at once can help.

- Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity can help reduce stress and improve overall bladder function. Activities like walking, swimming, or yoga can be beneficial.

2. Concerns About Medication Side Effects
Regarding the medications you are taking—Oxybutynin and Pentoxifylline—both can have side effects, including potential cardiovascular effects. Oxybutynin is an anticholinergic medication commonly used to treat bladder overactivity, and it can cause side effects such as dry mouth, constipation, and in some cases, increased heart rate or palpitations. Pentoxifylline is primarily used to improve blood flow and may also have cardiovascular effects.

If you are experiencing increased heart rate or palpitations after taking these medications, it is essential to contact your healthcare provider immediately. They may want to evaluate your symptoms further and consider adjusting your medication regimen. It’s crucial not to stop or adjust your medication without consulting your doctor first.

3. Understanding the Medications
Neither Oxybutynin nor Pentoxifylline is classified as an antibiotic. Antibiotics are specifically designed to treat bacterial infections, while Oxybutynin is an anticholinergic agent that helps reduce bladder spasms, and Pentoxifylline is a vasodilator that improves blood flow.
Regarding the duration of treatment, if your doctor prescribed these medications for 14 days, it is generally advisable to complete the course unless directed otherwise by your physician. Stopping medication prematurely can lead to a return of symptoms or incomplete treatment of the underlying condition.

Conclusion
In summary, managing bladder overactivity can involve a combination of lifestyle changes, exercises, and careful monitoring of medication side effects. If you continue to experience discomfort or have concerns about your medications, please reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific situation and may adjust your treatment plan as needed.

Wishing you the best in your journey toward improved bladder health. Take care!

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