Overactive bladder syndrome: an overview of diagnosis and management

Scrivens, Ruth

Ruth Scrivens is advanced practice physiotherapist, Bladder and Bowel Care Service, Exeter.

This article has been double-blind peer reviewed

Nursing Times 118(6):p 34-37, June 2022.

Abstract

Overactive bladder syndrome is a common, chronic condition that has a significant negative impact on quality of life. This review discusses the symptoms that characterise the condition and summarises the guidance on assessment and treatment that is currently available. A stepwise approach to treatment, starting with conservative management based on lifestyle and behavioural techniques, is recommended for most patients. Numerous pharmacological interventions are used as second-line treatments, and invasive procedures are available for patients who have refractory symptoms.

Citation Scrivens R (2022) Overactive bladder syndrome: an overview of diagnosis and management. Nursing Times; 118: 6, 34–37.

In this article…

The group of symptoms that characterise overactive bladder syndrome
How the condition is assessed and diagnosed
The stepwise approach to managing and treating overactive bladder symptoms