Overactive bladder is a condition where one cannot control the urge to urinate. It happens when the bladder muscles become weak due to age, accompanying health conditions, overuse of certain medications, and other factors. The symptoms can disrupt a person’s daily life and also cause a lot of embarrassment. While doctors prescribe medications to treat an overactive bladder, the following natural remedies can also provide patients a lot of relief.

1. Avoid irritants
Individuals with an overactive bladder should avoid certain foods and drinks that could irritate the bladder, such as alcohol, coffee, sodas, etc. Although one might even feel like reducing their water intake, it is essential to stay adequately hydrated since darker, more concentrated urine can also irritate the bladder. However, reducing intake of fluids a couple of hours before bed will ensure one does not wake up frequently to visit the bathroom.

2. Herbal treatments
Certain herbs are effective natural solutions for treating an overactive bladder. These include Chinese herbal blends, such as Gosha-jinki-gan. Capsaicin found in the fleshy part of peppers and corn silk, a waste product derived during corn cultivation, are known to reduce the symptoms.   However, one must consult a doctor before going for herbal treatments as some might cause side effects or interfere with the effectiveness of medications used to treat other health conditions.

3. Foods to eat
Eating certain foods, such as those packed with omega-3 fatty acids, could relieve urinary incontinence, a symptom of an overactive bladder. One can find omega-3s in oily fish and pumpkin seeds. Beverages like soy milk, barley water, and caffeine-free fruits and teas are also suitable. Moreover, high-fiber foods, including whole grains, beans, vegetables, and fruits, can help relieve constipation, a condition that can exert pressure on the bladder.

4. Weight management
Eating healthily and exercising can help maintain ideal body weight. This is crucial since being overweight can increase pressure on the bladder, resulting in stress incontinence. Stress incontinence is when urine leaks from the bladder due to an activity that puts pressure on it, such as sneezing or lifting.

5. Kegel exercises
This is one of the most well-known natural solutions for an overactive bladder. Kegel exercises involve relaxing and tightening the pelvic muscles to strengthen them, which, in turn, helps control the urge to urinate and hold the urine longer. One can consult a physical therapist on the exercises to do and how frequently.

6. Bladder retraining
When done along with Kegel exercises, this can be another effective way of treating overactive bladder. Bladder retraining involves keeping a journal on how often one passes urine and how long they can delay the trip to the bathroom. It can take six to eight weeks to show results.

Besides natural remedies, there are also surgeries and medicines to treat an overactive bladder. Individuals can consult a doctor for the best option based on their condition.