He has had this problem for a few years and it is getting worse. He has the urge to urinate even when he doesn't drink.
We told him to see a physician but he is working in China, where it is difficult to get to good medical help. He is returning to the States in a couple of months and we will make an appointment. What type of specialist should we see? Is there anything he can do in the meantime? He can usually sleep at night and he ends up rehydrating on weekends when he is not at work.
This sounds like a case of overactive bladder (OAB). When you see commercials for medications for urgency and incontinence, it usually is a medication for overactive bladder. If your actually leak urine while experiencing the frequent and intense urge to urinate, then it is called urge incontinence, and the same medications can often be used.
I'm glad to hear you're getting your son to a doctor, because a bladder becomes overactive due to a problem with the nerves of the bladder. Often it's just that simple, but sometimes it is caused by something more serious, like diabetes. So it's important to see a doctor for proper diagnosis.
Yes, your son should definitely see a doctor for his urgency troubles as soon as he can. He could start with a family doctor, however the type of specialist that focuses on urinary conditions and disorders is a urologist.
Here's some info for you:
Urge Incontinence
http://www.healthcentral.com/incontinence/treatment-000050_3-145.html
Best of luck. - MG
Important:
We hope you find this general health information helpful. Please note however, that this Q&A is meant to support not replace the professional medical advice you receive from your doctor. No information in the Answers above is intended to diagnose or treat any condition. The views expressed in the Answers above belong to the individuals who posted them and do not necessarily reflect the views of Remedy Health Media. Remedy Health Media does not review or edit content posted by our community members, but reserves the right to remove any material it deems inappropriate.
Featuring Content From:
By using this service, you accept our Terms of Use. Please read them. The consumer health information on is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical conditions. You should promptly seek professional medical care if you have any concern about your health, and you should always consult your physician before starting a fitness regimen. Copyright © 2012 Remedy Health Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
