Overactive bladder (OAB) is a chronic condition affecting both men and women, significantly impacting quality of life, daily activities, sleep, and sexual function. OAB is often diagnosed by excluding other conditions like urinary tract infections or metabolic disorders. The condition is particularly prevalent in individuals over 40, with nocturia being a common and bothersome symptom linked to poor sleep quality and depression in older adults.

Management of OAB includes both non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatments. Non-pharmacological options focus on lifestyle changes, bladder retraining, and pelvic floor exercises. Antimuscarinic drugs are the mainstay of pharmacological treatment, aimed at relaxing the detrusor muscle. However, these medications often cause side effects like dry mouth and constipation, which can lead to poor compliance. Newer therapies, such as botulinum toxin injections, sacral neuromodulation, and beta-3 agonists, offer additional treatment options, especially for patients who do not respond to antimuscarinics. Despite the challenges in treating OAB, tailored therapies can improve patient outcomes and quality of life, particularly for elderly patients.

Reference: Leron E, Weintraub AY, Mastrolia SA, Schwarzman P. Overactive Bladder Syndrome: Evaluation and Management. Curr Urol. 2018;11(3):117-125. doi: 10.1159/000447205.