Bladder issues
Hello Doctor, my name is Shuwei.
I am a student with a disability.
Ever since I started working as a security guard at Carrefour, I have been sitting for long periods and occasionally holding my urine, which has led to a diagnosis from Shulin Renai Hospital indicating that I have poor bladder contraction.
I was prescribed Uroselect 4mg to take after breakfast and dinner, initially half a tablet a day, which was later adjusted to one tablet.
I also take 25g of Solifenacin after breakfast and dinner, and recently I was prescribed a strong version of Neuroton to help with nerve function.
Every time I go to work, I hesitate to drink much because of these symptoms.
Over the past two months, I have found that in order to urinate normally while standing, I need to drink about 300cc of fluid; otherwise, I have to sit down to empty my bladder completely.
Sometimes, I still cannot fully empty my bladder.
I would like to ask what kind of exercises I can do to improve my current situation, and how long it might take for these symptoms to recover.
Shu Wei, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/06/12
Dr. Jian Weihong reply Urology
Hello: It is important to maintain proper hydration.
For indoor office work that doesn't involve much sweating, it is generally recommended to drink about 2000cc per day.
The color of your urine should not be too dark; if it is too dark, it may indicate insufficient hydration.
Engaging in physical activity, such as walking for half an hour, is beneficial.
As for how long it will take to improve, a visit to a major hospital for a medical examination may be necessary to determine that.
Wishing you good health.
Reply Date: 2023/06/12
More Info
Hello Shu-Wei,
Thank you for reaching out regarding your bladder issues. It sounds like you are experiencing significant discomfort and challenges related to your bladder function, particularly due to prolonged sitting and possibly holding your urine for extended periods while working. This can lead to a condition known as bladder dysfunction, which can manifest as difficulty in bladder contraction, incomplete emptying, and increased urgency or frequency of urination.
Understanding Your Condition
From your description, it seems that you have been diagnosed with poor bladder contraction, which can be a result of several factors, including prolonged sitting, nerve issues, or even stress. The medications you mentioned, such as Uroselective agents (like the one you referred to as "優列扶") and other nerve-related medications, are typically prescribed to help relax the bladder or improve nerve function. However, it’s essential to monitor how these medications affect you and communicate any side effects or concerns with your healthcare provider.
Tips for Improvement and Recovery
1. Hydration Management: While it’s understandable that you may want to limit fluid intake to avoid urgency, it’s crucial to maintain adequate hydration. Dehydration can lead to concentrated urine, which may irritate the bladder and worsen symptoms. Try to drink small amounts of water throughout the day rather than large quantities at once.
2. Scheduled Bathroom Breaks: Establish a routine for bathroom breaks, even if you don’t feel the urge. This can help train your bladder and reduce the anxiety associated with needing to go.
3. Pelvic Floor Exercises: Engaging in pelvic floor exercises (often referred to as Kegel exercises) can strengthen the muscles that support the bladder. To perform Kegels, tighten the muscles you would use to stop urination, hold for a few seconds, and then relax. Aim for three sets of 10 repetitions daily.
4. Bladder Training: Gradually increase the time between bathroom visits. Start with intervals that feel comfortable and slowly extend them. This can help your bladder hold more urine over time.
5. Physical Activity: Regular physical activity can improve overall health and may help with bladder function. Activities like walking, swimming, or yoga can be beneficial. However, avoid exercises that put excessive pressure on the bladder, such as heavy lifting or high-impact sports, until you feel more comfortable.
6. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Stress can exacerbate bladder issues. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or gentle yoga can help reduce anxiety and improve your overall well-being.
7. Consult a Specialist: If your symptoms persist or worsen, consider consulting a urologist or a pelvic floor specialist. They can provide tailored advice and may suggest additional treatments, such as physical therapy focused on pelvic floor rehabilitation.
Recovery Timeline
Recovery from bladder dysfunction can vary widely among individuals. Some may notice improvements within weeks, while others may take months. Consistency with exercises, hydration, and following your healthcare provider's recommendations will be key to your recovery.
Conclusion
It’s essential to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and any changes you experience. They can adjust your treatment plan as necessary and provide further guidance tailored to your specific situation. Remember, you are not alone in this, and with the right strategies and support, improvement is possible.
Take care, and I wish you the best on your journey to recovery!
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