Bladder problems affect millions
Bladder problems are not a normal part of ageing and 7 million people have an overactive bladder characterised by the urgent and frequent need to go to the toilet.
An overactive bladder can make someone feels less confident to use public transport, visit friends, go shopping and can have a negative affect on someones life making them isolated and depressed.
If you know someone who finds it difficult to manage the good news is that there is help available from both doctors and specialist continence nurses.
Initially it is a good idea to encourage someone with bladder problems to keep a diary. This is useful for the doctor to be able to understand their symptoms and possible causes. There are several treatment options available and it may take some trial and error to find the most effective one.
There is also a helpline available where someone can have a conversation in confidence which is 0800 0114786.