Bladder dysfunction
About bladder dysfunction
Bladder dysfunction is a term used for a wide range of problems that affect how the bladder works. It can include underactivity and overactivity of the bladder, as well as pain and burning sensations. Urinary incontinence and overactive bladder (OAB) are common types of bladder dysfunction.
Dr. Tony Makris is a urologic surgeon who manages bladder dysfunction at Paradigm Urology. He has extensive experience in treating both men and women of all ages.
How is bladder dysfunction diagnosed?
If you experience bladder dysfunction, it’s important to see your GP. Your doctor will usually ask for a variety of tests to identify the cause and refer you to a specialist for appropriate management. The tests involved may include:
Bladder diary
Keeping a bladder diary for 1-3 days can help your doctor thoroughly assess your symptoms. Record things like when and how often you urinate, how much you urinate, when and how much your bladder leaks, and any other symptoms.
Urinalysis
Your doctor will likely request a urinalysis. You will need to provide a sample of urine, which will be sent to a pathology lab for testing. This test rules out infection, too much sugar in the urine (glycosuria), and blood in the urine (haematuria).
Urinary tract ultrasound
A urinary tract ultrasound may be used to look at your bladder, ureters, and kidneys. The doctor will look for any physical abnormalities that may impact your bladder function.
Urodynamics studies
A specialist urologist can conduct urodynamic testing to see how your urinary tract works and assess how certain muscles are behaving. Dr Makris holds a subspecialty in this area.
How is bladder dysfunction treated?
Bladder dysfunction has a wide range of causes, and the ideal treatment will depend on a variety of factors. The goal of bladder dysfunction treatment is to manage the impact that symptoms have on your day-to-day life, and Dr. Makris will help you find a solution that works best for you.
Intermittent catheterisation
If poor emptying is the cause, intermittent catheterisation may be an option. This involves passing a catheter into the bladder every now and then, allowing it to drain fully. Your urologist will train you on how to do this safely and effectively.
Anticholinergic medications
If bladder dysfunction is caused by a neurological condition (neurogenic bladder), anticholinergic medications may reduce symptoms. Botox injections into the bladder muscles are also beneficial in some patients.
Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP)
In men, bladder dysfunction can sometimes be caused by enlargement of the prostate. It may be treated with a procedure such as TURP, which shaves away part of the prostate and can reduce constriction on the urethra.
Artificial sphincter
If conservative management techniques are ineffective, an artificial sphincter may be fitted. This allows the user to manually control whether or not urine can pass through the urethra by squeezing a small pump. The device is completely contained within your body.
Bladder procedures
Paradigm Urology performs a range of bladder procedures including:
- Flexible cystoscopy
- Rigid cystoscopy
- Bladder stone crushing
- Bladder tumor resection
- Bladder washout for clots
- Cystoscopy and retrograde studies
- Hydrodistension (stretching) of the bladder