Overactive bladder (OVB) is a potentially embarrassing condition. The symptoms of OVB include sudden uncontrollable urge to urinate, loss of bladder control, frequent urination and waking multiple times at night to go to the bathroom. In an overactive bladder the muscles of the bladder begin to involuntarily contract. This causes the need and urge to urinate even when the bladder itself may not be full.

There are a number of natural steps that can be taken to ease symptoms of OVB:

1. Do Kegel Exercises
The strength of the muscles in the pelvic floor is very important in controlling the symptoms of overactive bladder. This is because these muscles help control the flow or urine so if they are strong then you have greater control over bladder function. Both men and women can use kegel exercises to strengthen these pelvic floor muscles. It is important to maintain these exercises though, just as you would those that work any muscle in the body.

2. Avoid Caffeine
Recent studies have shown that women who consume high volumes of caffeine are 70% more likely to suffer bladder dysfunction issues. This is because caffeine is a natural diuretic which means that it increases the production of urine. In an already overactive bladder an increase in urine volume will worsen symptoms. This connection seems to only present with high levels of caffeine but avoiding caffeine in general can be beneficial in controlling symptoms

3. Quit Smoking
Smoking has been shown to worsen the symptoms of overactive bladder for a number of the reasons. The main reason smoking can worsen the condition is that it actually can cause irritation to the bladder. This obviously can lead to worsening involuntary contraction of the organ and as a result more frequent urination urgency. The secondary effect smoking can have is causing the smoker to cough more frequently. Coughing can cause involuntary bladder weakness even in a relatively healthy organ so a weakened bladder could certainly be effected. It is also important to realize that some studies have shown that smokers are more likely to develop bladder cancer than non smokers.

4. Eat a Fiber Rich Diet
Constipation can be a key contributing factor to overactive bladder due to bloated areas of the digestive tract applying pressure to the bladder. This can be remedied by solving the constipation and thus releasing the external pressure on the bladder. A fiber rich diet is an effective way of treating and preventing constipation. A healthy digestive system can be a key part of keeping stress off of the bladder.

5. Shed Excess Weight
Excess body fat has been shown to cause a worsening in the symptoms of overactive bladder. This is because of extra external pressure caused by deposits of fat around the abdomen. It can be especially problematic when lying down as the extra weight can push down on the bladder potentially causing involuntary leaks or bladder urgency. Even by losing a small amount of excess weight OVB sufferers may find an easing of the symptoms of this condition.