Neurogenic bladder is a condition where bladder control is disrupted due to nerve damage. With spina bifida, nerve signals that control the bladder are frequently affected, leading to common urinary issues such as urinary incontinence (loss of bladder control) and urinary retention (inability to fully empty the bladder).
Understanding these issues and their symptoms can help individuals manage bladder health effectively. Learn more about bladder problems and spina bifida in this article.
Common Bladder Problems in Individuals with Spina Bifida
People with spina bifida may experience several types of bladder issues due to disrupted nerve signals, including:
1. Urinary Incontinence
- Loss of bladder control can result in urine leakage, an urgent need to urinate, and the need to urinate frequently, especially at night (nocturia). This is often due to the bladder being unable to hold or store urine effectively.
2. Urinary Retention
- Some individuals struggle to empty their bladder fully, which can cause discomfort, a sense of fullness, and a weak urine stream. Retained urine also increases the risk of UTIs.
3. Neurogenic Bladder
- Spina bifida often leads to neurogenic bladder, where the bladder either becomes flaccid or spastic. A flaccid bladder stretches excessively and may hold a large amount of urine, which can lead to leakage. Conversely, a spastic bladder remains stiff, limiting its capacity and leading to frequent, incomplete emptying.
Symptoms of Bladder Problems
Bladder symptoms associated with spina bifida vary depending on the type of issue but may include:
For Urinary Incontinence: Leakage without warning, urgency to urinate, and nocturia (frequent nighttime urination)
For Urinary Retention: Weak urine flow, sense of fullness, discomfort, frequent trips to the restroom, and dribbling of urine
For Neurogenic Bladder: Frequent urination, uncontrolled leakage, and a persistent feeling of fullness or urgency
Additionally, people with these bladder conditions may be at a higher risk for UTIs, with symptoms like cloudy or foul-smelling urine, abdominal pain, fever, and burning during urination.
Causes of Bladder Dysfunction with Spina Bifida
In spina bifida, bladder dysfunction primarily results from neurogenic bladder. However, other conditions may also contribute to urinary problems, including:
Nerve Damage: Disrupted signals between the brain and bladder can lead to poor bladder control.
Spinal Cord Malformation: Due to the neural tube defect in spina bifida, the bladder’s ability to function normally is compromised, leading to incontinence or retention.
Secondary Conditions: Other complications, such as kidney issues, may also arise from chronic bladder dysfunction.
Managing Bladder Health with Catheters
For many with spina bifida-related bladder issues, catheters provide a reliable way to manage urinary retention and incontinence. Catheters are available in various types to suit individual needs:
- Intermittent Catheters: Used periodically to empty the bladder fully and reduce infection risk. Common in self-catheterization routines.
- Indwelling Catheters: Remain inserted for continuous urine drainage. Often attached to a collection bag, these are ideal for those needing constant drainage.
- External Catheters: This non-invasive option for men is attached externally like a condom to collect urine.
- Specialized Catheters for Limited Dexterity: The Cure Dextra™ catheter, for example, is designed for individuals with limited hand mobility.
Working closely with healthcare providers to determine the best catheter type and routine for each individual’s needs is essential.
Additional Tips for Bladder Health
For those managing bladder problems with spina bifida, these tips can help maintain bladder health:
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water can help flush bacteria and reduce the risk of UTIs.
- Maintain Hygiene: Proper cleaning of catheter equipment and personal hygiene are key to preventing infection.
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes, including new symptoms or discomfort, and share these with a healthcare provider.
- Consider Dietary Changes: A diet high in fiber can prevent constipation, which can exacerbate urinary problems.
- Consult a Healthcare Provider: Regular check-ups can help monitor kidney and bladder health, allowing for timely adjustments in care.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
Those individuals who live with or experience problems with the bladder may put off going to see a healthcare professional due to any embarrassment they may feel about their conditions. However, bladder problems are more common than some people may think. In some cases, having an issue with the bladder may be an indication of a more significant and potentially hazardous health condition. Therefore, listening to the bladder and informing healthcare providers of urinary changes should be taken very seriously.
Bladder problems can be caused by many factors, including numerous medical conditions and injuries. These issues may also be an indication that another area of health needs attention.