If you suspect a loved one, friend, or relative may suffer from overactive bladder (OAB) and is not actively seeking treatment for it, you can raise the issue in a calm, sensitive, and helpful manner designed to make the person feel comfortable discussing it.

The National Women's Health Report indicates that only about one-third of OAB sufferers discuss treatment options with their healthcare providers. While the awareness of the situation has improved over the past few years, many people still have the misconception that OAB is a normal process of aging. This is not true. OAB can affect both men and women and is not a normal condition with “getting old”.

Some OAB sufferers resort to continuous wearing of absorbent garments to protect their clothing or protect them from embarrassments from potential wetting accidents. It is important for you and your loved one to know that OAB is a medical condition that is treatable through behavioral and/or medication therapy.

Numerous Options Available
Even though it is believed that more than 33 million in the US alone suffer from OAB, it has only been in the last few years that the medical community began looking at classifying Incontinence and OAB as a “disease” so it can be properly taught in medical schools and treated.

Currently, there are a number of therapy options available for treating OAB.

• Behavioral therapies, pelvic muscle exercises, bladder training and biofeedback are options.
   
• Medication options include oral and skin patch drug delivery systems.
   
• Surgical options are available as well.

Only your doctor can determine which therapy or combination of therapies is right for you.

The unfortunate thing with a condition such as OAB is that sufferers tend to feel that it is a character flaw. Individuals with OAB are usually embarrassed about their condition and it takes them a long time to discuss their problem with a healthcare provider – if they discuss it at all. Some persons with OAB are even ashamed to discuss their problem with a loved-one. They tend to suffer through their condition with a “don’t-ask-don’t-tell” philosophy. Persons with OAB need to know their condition is a common problem, and that there is hope.