November is Bladder Health Month - Let's Flush Out Some Bladder Health Myths

November is Bladder Health Month, and this year the Urology Care Foundation is focusing on flushing out the myths and streaming in the facts about bladder health.

Each year, millions of men and women struggle with symptoms related to bladder conditions or diseases, but these symptoms are often overlooked. Some people feel shy talking about their bladder issues or they simply don’t realize their symptoms could signal a larger health issue.

Let’s flush these bladder health myths down the toilet!

Myth #1: Only women get urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Women, men and children can all get UTIs. Common reasons for a UTI are having sex, high blood sugar, kidney stones, an enlarged prostate or having problems with your body fighting disease or other sickness.

Myth #2: Smoking is the only cause of bladder cancer.

There are many causes of bladder cancer. Other risk factors besides smoking include chemicals ingested while working at a place that makes plastics, paints, leather and rubber; cancer drugs; radiation to the pelvis and a family history of bladder cancer.

Myth #3: Bladder leaks are a normal part of aging and cannot be treated.

Urine leaks are not a normal part of aging and can be treated. There are many surgical options, but it may be helpful to first try lifestyle changes, such as changing your diet. Other treatments are pelvic floor exercises, prescription drugs, hormone treatment, nerve stimulation and bladder Botox®.

Myth #4: Bedwetting is always the child’s fault and cannot be treated.

Over five million children in the U.S. have issues with bedwetting. If your child is over the age of 7 and often wakes to a wet bed, they may have a problem. You and your health care team will want to learn the cause of bedwetting and figure out a treatment plan. In some cases, prescription drugs can be used to help stop the bedwetting.

The first step in keeping your bladder happy and healthy is learn more. Every week this month, the Urology Care Foundation will spotlight bladder conditions that impact people in the U.S. and give tips on how to start talking with your health care team.

For more on Bladder Health Month, check out our resource center here.