What Is a Neurogenic Bladder?

 

The muscles and nerves of the urinary system work together to hold urine in the bladder and then release it at the appropriate time. Nerves carry messages from the bladder to the brain and from the brain to the muscles of the bladder, telling them either to tighten or release. In a neurogenic bladder, the nerves that are supposed to carry these messages do not work properly.

Complications of a Neurogenic Bladder

The following problems are often associated with a neurogenic bladder:

  • Urine leakage - often occurs when the muscles holding urine in do not get the right message.
  • Urine retention - often happens if the muscles holding urine in do not get the message that it is time to let go
  • Damage to the tiny blood vessels in the kidney - often happens if the bladder becomes too full and urine backs up into the kidneys, causing extra pressure
  • Infection of the bladder or ureters - often results from urine that is held too long before being eliminated
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