Botox: Treating Overactive Bladder & Incontinence
Most people are familiar with Botox in cosmetic surgery, and understand that a patient’s facial wrinkles go away when Botox is injected because the muscles can’t move anymore. However, Botox is used in many medical fields and are used primarily when medications or behavioral therapy are ineffective.
For patients suffering from Overactive Bladder (OAB) or Incontinence, Botox injections can be used to treat bladder problems such as severe urgency, leakage of urine, and spasms of the urethra. The bladder muscle depends on the nerves to be able to contract or spasm. Botox acts to block the ability of the nerves to send signals to the bladder and urethral muscles causing them to relax.
Botox Process:
A surgeon uses a small telescope called a cystoscope to look inside the bladder and later administers Botox. A minimal amount of Botox (100-300 units) is injected into the bladder wall where the muscle is located. The procedure is often performed under general or local anesthesia as an outpatient procedure. The Botox then kicks in about seven days after the initial procedure.
Benefits of Botox:
Patients who elect Botox treatment for their OAB or Incontinence experience a variety of benefits, including:
- 50% improvement in frequency of urination, nighttime
- Treatments that last between three to nine months before the symptoms return.
- The procedure can be repeated, and over time, the frequency of injections sometimes lessens as the muscle learns to relax.
If you have any questions regarding Botox, or if you think it may be the right fit for you, our team of professionals are available to answer any questions to help you make an informed decision. We at Western Michigan Urological Associates want to work with you to find the best option for you and your family. Ask Your Primary Care Provider for a Referral.
