Can an overactive bladder be cured in a 17-year-old?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am writing on behalf of my 17-year-old daughter, who is too embarrassed to discuss this issue herself. She has been diagnosed with an overactive bladder by a urologist, and it is significantly impacting her school life.

She rushes to the bathroom 12 to 15 times a day and has had a couple of accidents, which have shattered her confidence. The doctor prescribed oxybutynin, but she complains that it causes dry mouth and headaches. We conducted a urodynamic test, which revealed that her bladder capacity is significantly reduced.

My questions are:

Can an overactive bladder be fully cured in teenagers, or will she need to manage this for life?
Are there more permanent treatments available beyond medication
Should she see a pelvic floor physiotherapist?

We are very concerned that this condition will follow her into adulthood and negatively affect her quality of life.

Please guide.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I completely understand your concerns regarding an overactive bladder in your 17-year-old. This condition may require ongoing management and regular follow-up with a urologist to determine the most effective approach.

It is important to note that many adolescents experience significant improvement with appropriate therapy and interventions tailored to their needs. While Oxybutynin can be a common medication for managing symptoms, its side effects can be bothersome. Therefore, it might be beneficial to discuss alternative medications or formulations with a healthcare provider if the current treatment is not well-tolerated.

Additionally, I strongly recommend considering pelvic floor physiotherapy. This specialized therapy can greatly enhance bladder control and increase overall bladder capacity.

A qualified physiotherapist can provide crucial guidance in implementing bladder training techniques, which involve gradually increasing the time between voiding. This can be a vital component of managing overactive bladder symptoms.

If the situation requires further intervention, there are advanced treatment options available. However, these should be thoroughly discussed and monitored in collaboration with her urologist to ensure the best outcomes.

Alongside medical interventions, it can be beneficial to encourage her to attend counseling sessions. Counseling can provide emotional support and coping strategies, helping her divert her energy into productive and engaging activities. Many teens find success with conservative measures, which can lead to meaningful improvements in their condition.

Your attentiveness and support will undoubtedly play a crucial role in her journey towards managing this condition. Please take care, and do not hesitate to reach out for further assistance.

I hope I have addressed all of your questions and concerns.

Thank you.