Diagnosing overactive bladder is the first step toward getting relief

Are you constantly searching for a bathroom due to that “gotta go” feeling? If you have a frequent, sudden urge to urinate, you may have OAB, or overactive bladder. When you are looking for help with bladder symptoms, you need expert care. Our Houston urologists are experienced, trained and skilled at diagnosing overactive bladder. 

Our Houston urologists always start with a medical history and physical examination

Our team begins your appointment with a medical history. They ask you several questions to help them understand your past medical experiences, illnesses and past and current symptoms. You should bring a list of your current medications, both prescription and over-the-counter.  

Our team may also ask you about your diet and liquid intake, including how much you drink and which beverages you consume. After taking your history, our physicians perform a physical examination that includes examining your pelvic organs and rectum and feeling your abdomen. 

A bladder diary helps determine what is causing your frequent, sudden urge to urinate

A bladder diary is a vital tool for diagnosing overactive bladder. It’s not difficult to keep the diary, but it is important to do it regularly. Everything you record helps our Houston urologists make an accurate diagnosis. Here are the things you need to track in your diary. 

• Write down the amount of fluid you drink and when you drink it 
• Track your urination, including when and how much  
• Note how often you experience a frequent, sudden urge to urinate 
• If you have urine leakage, record when and how much urine leakage occurs 

Other tests our urologists perform when diagnosing overactive bladder

When diagnosing overactive bladder, our physicians may order other tests. Here are some you may expect. 

• Urinalysis to check for infection or blood in the urine 
• Ultrasound to scan the bladder to see if you are retaining urine after you go to the bathroom. 
• In some cases, our physicians may order urodynamic testing or a cystoscopy. Urodynamic testing includes a variety of different tests to determine how well your bladder works, as well as to check for blockages or leaks. A cystoscopy is a procedure that allows our physicians to examine your urethra and bladder lining. 

Don’t let embarrassment keep you from getting a diagnosis and treatment for OAB

That “gotta go” feeling can seriously affect your daily life and prevent you from enjoying activities. Our Houston urologists provide confidential, compassionate care, diagnosing and treating overactive bladder with skill and expertise. Contact us for an appointment.