Overactive Bladder HF#5965



Overactive bladder is very common in children.  This handout will tell you about it.

 

Signs and Symptoms

 

• Overactive bladder is a result of bladder spasms.  Your child’s bladder may all of a sudden contract, even before it is full.  This makes your child feel like he has to go to the bathroom right away.  You may notice him dancing around or sitting on a foot in efforts to stop this sudden urge.

 

• Some children with overactive bladders often have wetting accidents because they cannot get to the bathroom fast enough.  Your child is not holding his urine too long.  This has nothing to do with being naughty.  Bladder spasms are very hard to control.  Some wetting accidents may happen without the child realizing it.

 

• Many children with overactive bladder will often have urinary tract infections.  Wetting accidents increase the chance of infection.

 

• Constipation is very common and will cause the bladder to spasm.  You might not know that your child is constipated.  A bowel plan is a key part of treating the overactive bladder.

 

Medicines

 

Your doctor will discuss the medicines that are used to treat this condition. 

 

• Oxybutynin is used to relax the bladder and control bladder spasms.  Facial flushing is a common side effect.  Oxybutynin comes in a patch, tablet, and liquid forms.

 

• MiraLax® is a powder that is used to keep your child’s bowel movements regular and soft.  It has no taste and can be mixed in water or juice.  Your doctor will prescribe a dose that is very gentle and safe. 

 

• If your child has had many urinary tract infections or has one now, he will also take a daily antibiotic.

 

Overactive bladder may be very frustrating for both parent and child.  With patience and the proper treatment, many of the symptoms can be eased.

 

How do I get more information?

 

Call the Urology Clinic, Monday-Friday 8:00 – 4:30 at (608) 263-4757.

 

If you live out of the area, please call 1-800-323-8942.  Ask for the Urology Clinic.

 

 

The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

Last Updated: 05/06/2010

Copyright © 05/06/2010 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. HF#5965

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