Tips for Dealing With Overactive Bladder (OAB)
Here's help coping better with your overactive bladder.
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12 Tips for OAB at Work
- Put your work routine to good use. Scheduled toileting – emptying your bladder regularly on a schedule -- may help you control OAB symptoms.
- They share your pain: 38% of men and 22% of women with OAB said they're worried about interrupting meetings.
- Create a support network. Educate your co-workers about OAB and your experiences with it.
- Women: Need a little help to avoid leaks during a hectic work day? A tampon or pessary (like a diaphragm) can give that bit of support your pelvic tissues need.
- It's 10 a.m. and you need a pick-me-up. As tempting as a piping hot cup of coffee may be, caffeine can cause leaks. It may be time to go herbal!
- Talk with your boss about situating your cubicle or work station closer to the bathroom.
- Your workday may be hectic, but your bathroom breaks shouldn't be. Take plenty of time to completely empty your bladder.
- Time fluids carefully. Take a bathroom break before you start work and before meetings.
- Worried about a wetting accident? Keep fresh clothes available at work.
- Make use of meeting time: Do Kegel exercises. For three seconds to five seconds, tighten the muscles that control urination. Rest for 10 seconds. Do 10 repetitions.
- Avoid that cup of coffee when the 3 o'clock blahs hit. Caffeine is a diuretic and can encourage leaks when you have OAB.
- Don't let OAB take a toll on your work life. OAB isn't a normal part of getting older. Talk to your doctor about lifestyle changes and medications that can help.
Managing a full and busy work day can be a challenge for those with OAB, but with a few well-planned breaks, some timing, and a little help from your boss or co-workers, it can be done!
