Problems with bladder capacity can arise due to various situations. A serious illness can negatively affect the normal function of the bladder, causing the organ to not be able to hold the same amount of urine as in the past. Recent surgical procedures may temporarily decrease bladder capacity. There is even evidence that emotional problems can affect the body's natural ability to control bladder functions in a way that is considered normal. Fortunately, there are ways to address each of these issues and restore a healthy level of bladder capacity.
One sign of a problem with bladder capacity is the need to urinate frequently. For some reason, the bladder begins to feel the need to urinate long before it is full. When a doctor cannot identify any specific medical condition that is causing decreased ability and control, the use of conditioning exercises can sometimes be helpful.
Adults suffering from compromised bladder capacity can get relief by using some of the bladder conditioning exercises that are used to treat children with bedwetting problems. One exercise is known as the stop and go method. This process encourages the patient to consciously stop and then restart the flow of urine while removing fluids from the bladder. The idea is to help the patient regain a feeling of being in control of when and how often to urinate. Over time, this approach can help allow your bladder to fill to its fullest before you need to urinate.
A similar approach to treating bladder capacity problems involves intentionally consuming a large amount of fluid, then consciously delaying urination for as long as possible. The idea is to gradually increase the amount of time the patient can hold back the urge to urinate until he feels like she is in control of her bladder activity again.
It should be noted that any exercises designed for use with bladders should only be performed under the advice and care of a trained medical professional. Also, exercises should only be used when the doctor is sure there is no organic reason for the bladder capacity problem.
When bladder capacity problems are a side effect of recent surgery, the problem will usually go away as you recover. The treating physician can determine if the situation warrants changes in the patient's lifestyle, such as limiting beverage consumption, either in quantity or after a certain time of day. In some cases, medication can help lessen the severity of the urge to urinate while the patient continues to heal from surgery.
There is also the possibility of decreased bladder capacity due to some kind of emotional trauma. Trauma of this type often leaves the patient feeling unable to control anything, including bodily functions. When this is the case, therapy to modify behavior and facilitate recovery from the trauma will often result in the gradual restoration of the patient's ability to refrain from urinating until the bladder is maximally full.
When a loss of capacity occurs due to advanced age or a health condition that is not reversible, it is important to use methods that help the patient retain their dignity despite the problem. Using a catheter or some type of adult diaper under clothing are two examples of solutions that may be appropriate. However, the use of these types of devices should never be done until a doctor has determined that bladder capacity and control cannot be restored.