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Did you know that functional bladder disorders like overactive bladder and interstitial cystitis are connected to many other parts of our body, such as the brain and intestines?
Overactive bladder is a common syndrome characterized by uncontrolled bladder contractions resulting in urgency, frequency, and nocturia (waking up multiple times during the night to urinate). Patients with overactive bladder struggle to suppress the urge to urinate. Some patients may experience urinary incontinence. If left untreated, this condition can lead to urinary incontinence, an increased risk of urinary tract infections, and significant inflammatory changes.
While overactive bladder syndrome can occur in men, it is more frequently observed in women. It is even more prevalent in women with metabolic syndrome, those who have entered menopause, or those with pelvic organ prolapse.
Were you aware that battling this disease, which significantly impacts the patient's quality of life, largely involves your microbiota?
Researchers studying patients with bladder disorders have often noted the coexistence of mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. Their research suggests that the interaction between the brain-gut axis could be a key factor that can modify bladder activity.
The communication between the bladder and the brain-gut axis may influence permeability, inflammation, infectious etiology, and dysbiosis in bladder diseases. Studies have shown that overactive bladder syndrome is often accompanied by irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's and ulcerative colitis), sleep disorders, and depression. These individuals tend to have compromised gut microbiota and increased intestinal permeability. Proper use of probiotics and prebiotics has been observed to significantly improve overactive bladder syndrome symptoms by reducing damage and permeability.
Take care of your microbiota, and it will take care of you.
