Voiding Dysfunction
Voiding dysfunction refers to a lack of coordination between the bladder and various parts of the urinary tract.
Voiding dysfunction can be caused by an overactive bladder, tumors, and scar tissue in the urethra. To identify the exact cause of voiding dysfunction, patients will need to be evaluated by a urologist. Patients with a voiding dysfunction may have difficulty urinating, experience an involuntary loss of urine, and urinate more frequently than normal.
Symptoms of Voiding Dysfunction
Causes of Voiding Dysfunction
Voiding dysfunction is typically caused by relaxed or overactive pelvic floor muscles. In some cases, voiding dysfunction may be caused by nerve-related malfunctions or abnormalities that could also trigger irregular bladder contractions. Other potential causes include bladder stones, blockages within the urethra, and cancerous or benign tumors in the bladder.
Overactive bladder muscles can also contribute to voiding dysfunction, especially if bladder muscle contractions override the actions of sphincter muscles in the urethra. In men, an enlarged prostate or a similar issue due to prostatitis may cause voiding dysfunction.
Diagnosing Voiding Dysfunction
Patients will need to undergo a physical exam performed by a physician. They may be referred to a urologist who will then order certain tests like urodynamics, fluoroscopy, or endoscopy to pinpoint the exact cause of voiding dysfunction. Testing may include uroflowmetry to measure the amount of urine produced during voiding and the speed of urine flow. Patients may be asked to keep a voiding chart for a short period of time to identify and assess urination patterns. A post-void residual (PVR) urine test may also be done to measure the amount of urine left in the bladder after urination.
Treatment Options for Voiding Dysfunction
If the urologist recommends intermittent self-catheterization (ISC) to treat voiding dysfunction, patients will be taught how to insert a urinary catheter when they experience an urge to urinate. The catheter will be removed after urination is completed.
The urologist may also prescribe medications, such as muscle relaxants. In cases where voiding dysfunction is related to nerve issues, a neuromodulation device will be surgically implanted to deliver electrical impulses and manage nerve signals.
In some cases, patients may reduce their risk of developing voiding dysfunction by performing exercises to strengthen pelvic floor muscles proactively. Forming a habit of drinking plenty of water on a daily basis, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding overly acidic foods can also play a role in supporting a healthy urinary system.
