Voiding Dysfunction
The term Voiding Dysfunction, at first glance, sounds complicated and potentially painful. In reality, voiding dysfunction simply refers to a coordination issue between the bladder muscles and the urethra. It is a condition that effects children, woman and men. Normal urination calls for the urethra to relax and open when the bladder muscles contract. Voiding Dysfunction takes place when this does not occur and the urethra fails to relax when the bladder muscles are contracting and this causing urine to not pass easily.
If you are having trouble urinating, then make an appointment right away with a Urologist. You might be experiencing this condition that effects an estimated 25 million Americans.
Voiding Dysfunction Symptoms in Women
For women, Voiding Dysfunction can present in a wide range of symptoms:
- Abnormally slow urination
- Incomplete urination (still have to go)
- Urinary hesitancy
- Frequent urination
- Sense of urgency to urinate
- Dribbling of urine
Causes of Voiding Dysfunction
Other conditions, such as Interstitial Cystitis or Urinary Incontinence fall under the Voiding Dysfunction umbrella. Although, nerve dysfunction, non-relaxing pelvic floor muscles or a combination of the two can cause Voiding Dysfunction. Under activity of the bladder or outflow from the Urethra can also cause this condition.
Are Treatments Invasive?
Treatment for women is very individualized, therefore, do not try to self treat and immediately visit your Urologist.
Your treatment might include pelvic floor therapy, intermittent self-catherization, muscle relaxants or use of a “pacemaker” type device. Only you and your physician can determine together the best source of treatment for your unique health needs.
Voiding Dysfunction in Men
For men, Voiding Dysfunction Symptoms can be broad as well:
- Difficulty in emptying bladder
- Straining to urinate
- Urinary hesitancy
- Frequent urination
- Sense of urgency to urinate
- Weak stream
- Dribbling of urine
Causes of Voiding Dysfunction
Common causes for men include enlarged prostate or prostatitis, less common is urethral scar tissue and bladder stones or bladder tumors. Also, hyperactivity in a man’s pelvic floor can cause Voiding Dysfunction, in addition to inappropriate bladder contractions.
Are Treatments Invasive?
Treatments for men will differ than women and once the source of the condition has been identified then your physician will review the best course of action.