Incontinence can make it challenging to go through work and personal lives. This is caused due to an overactive bladder. Individuals with an overactive bladder may sometimes find themselves in awkward situations if they can’t access washrooms on time. There are several ways for managing an overactive bladder; here are some of these. 

Put a cap on the consumption of caffeine and alcohol
Caffeine and alcohol significantly increase the amount of urine the body produces. As they are diuretic in nature, you may find success in managing an overactive bladder by reducing or eliminating caffeine and alcohol from your diets. There are various sources of caffeine, including coffee, some aerated drinks, chocolates, and tea. Some medications, too, may contain caffeine.

Taking care of bowel habits
The bladder function is also affected by other conditions like constipation. This is because constipation can create pressure on the bladder, contributing to the problem of an overactive bladder. One can ensure bowel regularity through proper exercises and a diet rich in fibrous foods. Some foods that are rich in fibers include oars, fresh fruit, salads, beans, pasta, and whole wheat bread, among others.

Diet changes
There are several bladder irritants in food that can make managing an overactive bladder difficult by stimulating increased production of urine. It is better to avoid such foods for those suffering from the problem. Some foods that can be avoided include apples, citric foods, spicy foods, tomatoes, and foods that contain corn syrup among the others. Limiting these items can ensure low chances of accidents for people with an overactive bladder.

Watch out for artificial sweeteners
Artificial sweeteners can also have a diuretic effect on the body. This is because some of these may contain sodium saccharin, aspartame, and acesulfame K. These compounds may worsen incontinence. You can replace these artificial sweeteners in food with other healthy alternatives like stevia. The National Association of Continence believes that there is no bladder irritation that can be caused by stevia-sweetened products. 

Exercises for women
Pelvic floor muscle exercises and kegel exercises can help in strengthening the pelvic floor muscles. This can help in better control over the bladder. It is important to find the pelvic muscles before starting any of these exercises. These muscles are easy to find. To do so, try to hold the urine in the middle of urinating. The muscles you will use for it are the pelvic muscles.

Retraining bladder
Some patients may be asked to retrain the bladder to help control the number of bathroom visits. These patients may also be asked to do kegel exercises while they retrain the bladder. Doctors recommend following a bathroom schedule for this. The patients may be asked to hold the urine for 5-10 minutes after the urge to urinate arises. This time is increased gradually to get better control over the bladder.