How to Keep Your Bladder Healthy as You Age | Tennessee Valley Urology Center

When many people think about healthy aging, they think about fall prevention, reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, and overall just staying physically health. However, our team at Tennessee Valley Urology Center wants you to know that healthy aging should also include bladder health.

During Healthy Aging Month, take a look at ways your bladder changes as you age, as well as how you can improve and maintain your bladder health with each passing year.

How Your Bladder Changes as You Age

There are many changes your bladder can go through as you get older. For one, the elastic band tissue may become less stretchy, which means you are not able to hold as much urine as you could before. Therefore, you are making more trips to the bathroom.

In addition, the wall of your bladder and pelvic floor muscles may weaken. As a result, it can make it more difficult for your bladder to fully empty, which means you might experience urine leakage more often.

Common Bladder Conditions

There are a number of bladder conditions that you’re at a higher risk for as you age.

They can affect your day-to-day activities, which can put a damper on your quality of life. However, you don’t have to live with these conditions, as we are here to help you through any bladder issues you might have in life.

These common bladder conditions include:

  • Urinary tract infections
  • Overactive bladder
  • Urinary incontinence
  • Bladder cancer

While there are certain things that you cannot control when it comes to your bladder health, there are some risk factors that are within your control.

For instance, diabetes can cause the nerves around your bladder to be damaged, which can affect your ability to control your bladder. So, you’ll want to keep a careful eye on your blood sugar levels and take steps to manage diabetes if you’re diagnosed.

In addition, smoking can increase a person’s risk of bladder cancer. Avoid smoking, and if you are a current smoker, aim to quit sooner rather than later!

Get regular exercise and eat a balanced diet to help ensure you remain in optimal health—bladder included!

Are you experiencing bladder issues? Make an appointment with Tennessee Valley Urology Center today. We are here to help!