Over 17 million Americans (a very conservative estimate) have an overactive bladder, yet many miss out on treatments that could help reduce symptoms like the strong sudden urge to urinate. Talking candidly with your doctor about your symptoms can insure you get proper diagnosis and treatment.

The National Association for Continence (NAFC) has established several warning signs of bladder problems. You may find yourself limiting your fluid intake or taking other preemptive actions that are not part of a healthy, active lifestyle. There are many treatable conditions that cause these symptoms, so it’s important that you share this information with your physician. That will set you on the path toward accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.

Print out this page to rate your urological symptoms.

Ratings for symptom severity:
1 - Not at All
2 - Rarely
3 - Sometimes
4 - Often
5 - Always

Urinating frequently, day or night

Leakage of urine

Weakness of the urinary stream

Inability to urinate or difficulty urinating

Needing to run for a toilet

Blood in the urine

Frequent bladder infections

Pain related to urination

If your answers indicate that you have one or more of these dysfunctional symptoms, please print out this page to share with your primary care provider. He or she can reach Dr. Lemmers in Silverton at 503-873-8740 or in Woodburn at 503-982-4878.