Summer is the time for trips, outings, beaching, and lots of activities. That works for most of us, but if you suffer with OAB, you might find yourself resisting doing much of anything. There is always the fear of an embarrassing accident. What can you do? Overactive bladder management: staying active this summer.
Signs Of An Overactive Bladder
When you have an overactive bladder, there are a host of symptoms including urinary frequency and urgency, incontinence, and the nagging need to pee several times during the night.
Obviously if you don’t tell your doctor, you can’t get treatments. If you desire an active lifestyle, there are some ways to manage your OAB symptoms.
Eat Right
This may be a surprise to many, but eating the right amount of fiber can help not only with constipation, but also with an overactive bladder. Choose fresh and healthy summer veggies and other seasonal foods.
When Taking A Road Trip
Traveling by car is a bit more relaxing than a flight. In a car you can plan out specific stops for restroom breaks along the way. It is more flexible and puts you in control.
Flying Is Another Story
We don’t mean to deter you from flying during the summer. You can still manage symptoms when taking a flight to your vacation destination.
Some ways to make it easier:
- Select an aisle seat so you don’t have to climb over others to make it to the restroom.
- Don’t drink a lot of liquids prior to your flight.
- Keep your seatbelt fastened loosely around your waist to reduce pressure on your bladder.
Watch What You Drink
Water is always best to stay hydrated during the summer, however don’t let that scare you. Just don’t gulp it down all at once. Slowly sip water during the day. Avoid alcohol, carbonated sodas, and caffeine which can irritate your bladder especially when traveling.
Manage Your Weight With Regular Exercise
Extra weight puts extra stress on your bladder. Talk with our OBGYNs about the right exercise regimen for you to manage your weight or lose a few pounds. These ideas will help you stay active this summer.
Go Before You Have To
Yes, if you are passing a restroom on a trip, take advantage of the opportunity to urinate even if you don’t have the urgency. It will help you delay your next time and make it easier to enjoy an active lifestyle even with OAB. A little bit of forethought and planning can increase your enjoyment of summer activities.
Make an appointment with our board-certified OBGYNs at (205) 933-8334 to get additional advice for managing the symptoms of OAB and to find the right treatment options.
Sources: Top 5 Tips for Managing Urinary Incontinence in the Summer (180medical.com)
Tips for Dealing with OAB on Summer Trips – Urology Care Foundation (urologyhealth.org)
Summer Travel for You and Your Bladder: 7 Tips for Fewer Emergencies – The Urology Group
Top Travel Tips for People with Overactive Bladder (OAB) (byramhealthcare.com)