Blasenstörungen

Blasenstörungen, also known as bladder dysfunction, encompass a range of conditions that affect the normal storage and emptying of urine. These disorders can impact both men and women and have various underlying causes. Common types include urinary incontinence, where there is involuntary loss of urine, and urinary retention, where the bladder cannot be emptied completely.

Urinary incontinence can manifest in several forms, such as stress incontinence, urge incontinence, overflow incontinence, and functional incontinence. Stress incontinence occurs due to weakened pelvic floor muscles, often resulting from childbirth or surgery. Urge incontinence is characterized by a sudden, intense urge to urinate followed by an involuntary loss of urine. Overflow incontinence happens when the bladder is overfilled and leaks. Functional incontinence is related to physical or cognitive impairments that prevent a person from reaching a toilet in time.

Urinary retention can be acute or chronic. Acute urinary retention is a sudden inability to urinate, which is a medical emergency. Chronic urinary retention develops gradually and may lead to kidney damage if left untreated. Causes of retention include prostate enlargement in men, nerve damage, certain medications, or blockages in the urinary tract.

Diagnosis of bladder disorders typically involves a medical history, physical examination, urinalysis, and sometimes urodynamic testing to assess bladder function. Treatment approaches vary depending on the specific disorder and its cause, and may include behavioral therapies, pelvic floor exercises, medication, or surgical interventions. Lifestyle modifications can also play a role in managing some bladder problems.