Treatments for Common Urinary Concerns

Written By Jessica Lara

As we age, our bodies undergo various changes, and urinary issues become more common, affecting both men and women and significantly impairing quality of life. These problems can significantly impact quality of life, but understanding their root causes and treatment options can help manage symptoms effectively.

1. Overactive Bladder (OAB):

Root Issue: Overactive bladder is characterized by a sudden urge to urinate, often resulting in incontinence. It occurs due to involuntary contractions of the bladder muscles.

Treatment Options:

  • Behavioral Therapies: These include bladder training and pelvic floor exercises, which can help improve bladder control. Lifestyle modifications including diet & review of possible exacerbating factors like caffeine are also important.

  • Medications: Anticholinergics and beta-3 adrenergic agonists can reduce symptoms by relaxing the bladder muscles.

  • Nerve Stimulation: Techniques such as sacral neuromodulation or percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS) involve using a needle to stimulate nerves that control bladder function, helping to reduce urgency and frequency of urination. Though it will not improve pelvic floor strength, this is a good option for patients who do not respond to conventional treatments.

Treatment Options at Defiance Health:

  • Emsella: This is a non-invasive treatment that uses electromagnetic technology to stimulate the pelvic floor muscles, improving bladder control. It is particularly beneficial for patients seeking a non-surgical approach—no other options can increase strength and neuromuscular control like Emsella.

  • Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): For women, especially those post-menopause, bioidentical HRT can alleviate urinary symptoms by balancing hormone levels.

2. Urinary Incontinence:

Root Issue: This condition involves the involuntary leakage of urine and can be caused by weakened pelvic floor muscles, hormonal changes, or prostate issues in men.

Treatment Options:

  • Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy: Strengthening exercises can be very effective in managing incontinence.

  • Medications: Depending on the type of incontinence, medications can help stabilize bladder function.

  • Surgical Options: In severe cases, surgical interventions may be necessary to provide relief.

Treatment Options at Defiance Health:

  • Emsella: Offers a non-invasive solution to strengthen pelvic muscles without the downtime associated with surgery. Emsella is a unique medical device unmatched by other treatments for muscular strength and control.

3. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) in Men:

Root Issue: BPH involves the enlargement of the prostate gland, leading to urinary difficulties such as frequent urination, a weak stream, and the inability to completely empty the bladder.

Treatment Options:

  • Medications: Alpha-blockers and 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors can help reduce symptoms by relaxing the prostate muscles and shrinking the gland.

  • Minimally Invasive Procedures: Techniques like UroLift or laser therapy can relieve obstruction.

  • Lifestyle Modifications: Reducing fluid intake before bedtime and avoiding alcohol or caffeine can alleviate symptoms.

  • Emsella: While BPH is not a direct indication for this treatment, improvement of circulation, strengthening of the pelvic floor can help avoid concurrent issues and fortify men’s core strength.

4. Erectile Dysfunction (ED) in Men:

Root Issue: Erectile dysfunction is often caused by reduced blood flow to the penis, nerve damage, or psychological factors. It can also be linked to conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or hormonal imbalances.

Treatment Options at Defiance Health:

  • Medications: Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (such as Viagra, Cialis) enhance blood flow to the penis. Injectable medications can be beneficial in many men.

  • Lifestyle Changes: Improving diet, exercise, and managing stress can positively impact erectile function.

  • Emsella: While primarily used for pelvic floor strengthening, Emsella can also improve blood flow and nerve function, potentially benefiting erectile health in many men.

    Other Options:

  • Vacuum Erection Devices: These devices help draw blood into the penis to induce an erection.

  • Counseling: For ED with psychological roots, therapy can be beneficial.

5. Vaginal Dryness and Intimate Discomfort in Women:

Root Issue: Vaginal dryness and discomfort during intimacy are common issues for women, especially during and after menopause. These symptoms can be caused by a decrease in estrogen levels, leading to thinning and inflammation of the vaginal walls.

Treatment Options at Defiance Health:

  • Vaginal Moisturizers and Lubricants: Over-the-counter products can provide immediate relief by reducing friction and discomfort.

  • Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): This treatment can help restore hormone levels, improving vaginal moisture and elasticity.

  • Vaginal Estrogen Therapy: Low-dose estrogen creams, rings, or tablets can be applied directly to the vaginal area to alleviate dryness.

  • Emsella: Although primarily used for urinary incontinence, Emsella can enhance pelvic floor health, potentially improving blood flow and tissue integrity in the vaginal area, thereby reducing dryness and discomfort. Studies have shown improvements in vaginal lubrication, intimate satisfaction, and incontinence symptoms.

  • Emfemme 360: This non-invasive radiofrequency treatment helps improve vaginal health by stimulating collagen production and enhancing blood circulation, which can significantly reduce vaginal dryness and improve comfort during intimacy.

  • Lifestyle Modifications: Staying hydrated and avoiding irritants such as scented soaps and douches can help maintain vaginal health.

Choosing the Right Treatment:

When deciding on treatment options, you’ll want to consider factors such as the type and severity of your symptoms, the range of treatment options and potential side effects, and personal preferences. Emsella offers a unique, non-invasive alternative for those looking to avoid surgery, while bioidentical HRT may be an ideal choice for women experiencing hormonal imbalances. Emfemme 360 is a unique and comfortable treatment offering improvement of internal and external tissue quality for women. Oral, injectable, or topical medications are available for various concerns,, as well as more invasive procedures when necessary.

At Defiance Health we prioritize personalized and thorough care, ensuring that each patient receives the treatment they truly need. To do so we offer comprehensive evaluations and a range of therapeutic options, as well as referrals to the specialist best-suited to your needs when outside of our scope of services. Our approach is to listen to your concerns and provide solutions that align with your health goals. We are committed to your well-being and encourage you to seek a care provider who values your health as much as we do.

Book a consultation online or call/text: 719-480-2400

Keywords:

  • Urinary Incontinence

  • Overactive Bladder

  • Emsella

  • Emfemme 360

  • BPH

  • Prostate problems

  • Menopause

  • Perimenopause

Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice. No patient/provider relationship has been established by your use of this information. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here.

Jessica Lara
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