Bladder spasms occur when the bladder’s muscles contract swiftly and forcefully, causing you to feel the urge to urinate. They can occur in patients with diseases such as overactive bladder. They are common following a hysterectomy, especially in the first few weeks.
A bladder spasm may result in incontinence (urine leakage). Other symptoms associated with spasms include frequent need to urinate and a burning sensation. The spasm may also indicate an infection. UTI (urinary tract infection) can lead to bladder pain, urgency, burning, and spasms. When a bladder infection is treated, bladder and urine-related symptoms may subside.
This post elaborates on bladder spasms and their common occurrence after a hysterectomy. The center also discusses the causes associated with bladder spasms after urinating. Moreover, the article also highlights associated bladder issues and their treatment options.
A bladder spasm, also known as a “detrusor contraction,” occurs when a bladder muscle contracts quickly and unexpectedly, causing a person to feel the urgent need to urinate. The bladder could leak because the spasm could force urine out. It is a common symptom of an overactive bladder.
There are a variety of health conditions that might cause bladder spasms. Changes in blood flow and the activity of the nerves that control the bladder are associated with spasms. It may also be caused by your food or the medication you take.
Spasms can also be triggered by an infection, a recent surgery, or nerve or muscle damage in the pelvic region.
Bladder spasms can occur at any age, but those older, overweight, pregnant, experiencing hormonal changes, or having a neurological problem are more prone to also experience urine incontinence.
Among the most frequent causes of bladder spasms are:
The brain is responsible for sending a signal to the bladder muscle, instructing it to contract and release urine. Certain neurological illnesses can cause nerve damage and make communicating difficult for the brain and bladder. As a result, the bladder fails to function properly. Nerve injury also creates bladder issues, leading to neurogenic bladder.
Nervous system disorders or injuries that cause spasms are:
Surgical procedures also cause bladder spasms. For instance, during lower abdominal surgery, the nerves that regulate the bladder or the muscles that support the pelvic floor and bladder get damaged, leading to spasms.
Hysterectomy is the surgical procedure of removing the uterus. Depending on the underlying condition or the medical necessity, it is either partially or completely removed. Additionally, the cervix, ovaries, Fallopian tubes, and other surrounding tissues may need to be removed.
It is a major operation that might injure or weaken the abdominal cavity-supporting ligaments. The bladder will lose the assistance it received from the uterus after a hysterectomy. Additionally, the surgery will cause the bladder to move within the pelvis.
The bladder is separated from the uterus as part of the hysterectomy procedure. As a result, the nerves that control the bladder are susceptible to alteration.
Changes in urinary function following a hysterectomy may be caused by alterations in the body’s structure or neuronal function. Endopelvic fascia connects the bladder, the uterus, and the rectum to the side walls of the pelvic cavity. It also assists in supporting the rectum. The ligaments hold the cervix in place while the remainder of the uterus is unrestricted to move. This makes the cervix the direct support for the organ. The pelvic plexus consists of the sympathetic and parasympathetic neurons. Neurons are essential to coordinating smooth muscles in the bladder and intestines. The pelvic plexus is vital to the coordination of these contractions. During a hysterectomy, damage to this autonomic nerve supply may result in malfunctioning. Hence, bladder spasms after a hysterectomy occur.
Some people also experience bladder spasms after urinating. The most common cause is subacute cystitis. It is the most prevalent bacterial infection characterized by the inability to urinate or painful urination. If you have urine incontinence, your condition could worsen. Additionally, it might result in hematuria or pyuria, which is blood in the urine. It frequently causes other symptoms like fever and low back pain.
Symptoms of bladder spasms after urinating include a strong urge to urinate even if the bladder is empty and pain in the pelvic area.
You should seek immediate medical assistance if spasms induce a high fever, considerable pain in the pelvic floor muscle, or blood in the urine. They will thoroughly examine your symptoms to determine a suitable treatment plan.
The first step in treating bladder spasms is comprehending their signs and causes. The following can lessen the frequency and intensity of bladder spasms and enhance your quality of life:
Lifestyle modification and other treatments may help you better control and lessen your bladder spasms. Treatment for the underlying problem, such as an infection, is likely to be successful in alleviating the related symptoms.
You should consult a physician if any of your symptoms persist or worsen. You may need to alter your existing treatment regimen or try a different medication.
See Also: Bladder infection vs. UTI: What’s the difference?
Bladder spasms are uncontrollable contractions of the muscles in the bladder wall. These abrupt, forceful contractions can encourage urination even when the bladder is not full. Bladder spasm is a common sign of bladder issues such as urine incontinence, interstitial cystitis, or bladder irritation. They are also common after a hysterectomy.
Treatment options include medication, lifestyle modifications, and physical therapy. A healthcare professional should be consulted to identify the underlying cause of bladder spasms and create an effective treatment strategy.
A skilled team of specialists offers comprehensive treatment at Family Medicine Austin, including experts in women’s health and UTIs. Make an appointment immediately to enjoy the benefits of individualized, tailored medical care.
