An overactive bladder (OAB) is a common problem, affecting up to 1 in 6 adults. OAB can have a significant impact on your quality of life, making it difficult to work, travel, or even sleep. If you’re dealing with OAB, you may be hesitant to talk to your doctor about it. After all, it’s a sensitive topic. However, it’s important to remember that your doctor is there to help you. By openly discussing your symptoms, you and your doctor can develop a treatment plan that will improve your quality of life. Here are a few tips to help you talk to your doctor about an overactive bladder.
- Be prepared. When you make an appointment to see your doctor, let the receptionist know that you would like to discuss OAB. This will give the doctor time to review your medical history and medications beforehand. It will also allow for more time during the appointment so that you can ask any questions that you may have.
- Be specific about your symptoms. When describing your symptoms to your doctor, be as specific as possible. Include how often you experience them and what makes them better or worse.
- Don’t be embarrassed. Remember that your doctor has heard it all before and is there to help you, not judge you. They’ve seen patients with all types of problems, so there’s nothing embarrassing that you can say that they haven’t heard before.
- Be honest about how OAB is impacting your life. Many people feel like they need to downplay the effects of OAB on their lives, but it’s important for your doctor to understand the full extent of the problem in order to develop an effective treatment plan.
- Ask questions. If there’s anything that you don’t understand or want clarification on, don’t hesitate to ask questions. It’s better to get all the information upfront so that you can make informed decisions about your care.
- Follow up after the appointment. If anything changes with your symptoms or if you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to call or schedule another appointment with your doctor for follow-up care.
An overactive bladder can be a difficult condition to deal with, but luckily there are treatments available that can improve your quality of life. If you’re dealing with OAB, the first step is talking to your doctor about it—and these tips will help make that conversation go as smoothly as possible.
The Michigan Institute of Urology is one of the longest standing and largest sub-specialty Urology practices in the State of Michigan, we are dedicated to providing our patients the most up-to-date, state-of-the-art urologic care. Our specialists have been recruited from the most sophisticated university centers in the United States and are available at all of our 22 office locations. Our administrative staff follows strict guidelines to ensure the most cost-effective medical care is provided. Michigan Institute of Urology, P.C., is comprised of 46 General and Fellowship Trained Urologists with a complement of compassionate, caring Nurse Practitioners, Registered Nurses, Medical Assistants, and Ancillary Personnel.
