Neurogenic Bladder
Understanding Neurological Bladder Control Disorders and Treatment Options
Illustration showing Neurogenic Bladder
What Is Neurogenic Bladder?
Neurogenic bladder is the term for what happens when neurological (nervous system) conditions affect how your urinary bladder works.
Your nervous system consists of your brain, nerves, and spinal cord. Your nerves send electrical signals between your brain and every other part of your body. The electrical signals tell your body to function — to move, to breathe and even to pee.
Key Fact: Neurogenic bladder occurs when a problem with your brain, nerves or spinal cord causes you to lose control of your bladder. Another name for neurogenic bladder is neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD).
What are the types of neurogenic bladder?
There are two major types of bladder control problems that link to neurogenic bladder. They depend on the affected nerves and the nature of the damage.
Overactive Bladder
Also known as spastic or hyper-reflexive bladder
Symptoms include:
- Difficulty starting to pee, slow urine stream or dribbling
- Loss of bladder control (urinary incontinence)
- Peeing eight or more times daily
- Sudden urges to pee immediately
Underactive Bladder
Also known as flaccid or hypotonic bladder
Symptoms include:
- Bladder not emptying completely or at all
- Bladder too full, causing overflow incontinence
- Not being able to tell when bladder is full
What causes neurogenic bladder?
Congenital Conditions
Present at birth:
- Caudal regression syndrome
- Cerebral palsy
- Spina bifida
Neurological Conditions
Common causes:
- Central nervous system tumors
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Parkinson's disease
- Stroke
Other Conditions
Additional causes:
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic injuries (falls, accidents)
Complications of neurogenic bladder
Medical complications may include:
-
Kidney damage (kidney disease)
-
Kidney stones and urinary system stones
-
Pee flowing backward to kidneys (reflux)
-
Repeated urinary tract infections (UTIs)
-
Increased risk of bladder infections
Psychological Impact
Neurogenic bladder can also make you nervous to go out in public because you may worry about leaks or odors. This can cause feelings of anxiety, depression and loneliness. It's important to recognize these feelings and reach out to a healthcare provider for help.
Diagnosis and Tests
How doctors diagnose neurogenic bladder
A healthcare provider will review your medical history, ask questions about your symptoms and recommend a physical exam. If they suspect neurogenic bladder, they may recommend nervous system and bladder tests.
Cystoscopy
Look inside urethra and bladder
Imaging Tests
CT, MRI, ultrasounds, X-rays
Urodynamic Testing
Measure bladder capacity, pressure, flow
Urodynamic testing details: During urodynamic testing, a provider may place special sensors near your urethra or rectum to make sure your muscles and nerves in those areas are working properly. They'll also likely refer you to a specialist.
Treatment and Management
What kind of doctor treats neurogenic bladder?
A urologist who specializes in neurourology can help treat neurogenic bladder.
A urologist is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect your urinary system, as well as the male reproductive system and the female reproductive system. Neurourology is the study of neurological conditions that affect your urinary system.
Common Treatment Approaches
- Medications to relax bladder or improve contractions
- Bladder training and scheduled voiding
- Intermittent catheterization
- Surgical interventions when needed
Management Strategies
- Fluid management and dietary changes
- Pelvic floor muscle exercises
- Use of protective products when needed
- Regular follow-up with specialists
Key Takeaways
Understanding Neurogenic Bladder
- Caused by nervous system conditions affecting bladder control
- Two main types: Overactive and Underactive bladder
- Can be congenital or develop from neurological conditions
- Also known as neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction
Management & Treatment
- Seek specialist care from neurourologist
- Regular monitoring prevents kidney complications
- Multiple treatment options available
- Address psychological impacts with healthcare provider
Important: If you experience symptoms of neurogenic bladder, consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and management. Early intervention can help prevent complications and improve quality of life.