Experts: See doctor if incontinence starts



ROCHESTER, Minn., March 11 (UPI) -- U.S. health experts Thursday
urged people to see their doctors if they suffer from an overactive
bladder, which can signify the onset of serious illness.

The experts, from the Mayo Clinic, said overactive bladder is a type
of urinary incontinence that affects an estimated 17 million
Americans, primarily women.

The condition occurs when abnormal signals traveling in nerves to and
from the bladder cause its muscles to contract without warning, even
when the bladder is not full. Symptoms include frequent urination --
defined as 13 or more times a day -- an urgent need to urinate and
leaking or gushing associated with a sudden, strong urge to urinate.

Anyone troubled by these symptoms should see a doctor because they
could indicate a serious illness. Doctors can can recommend simple
exercises or changes in bathroom schedule that can help reduce
symptoms. Available medications also can help.