Bladder Health and Diabetes: Can Urinary Tract Problems be a Sign of Untreated Diabetes?

November 3, 2023

Because November is both Bladder Health Month and American Diabetes Awareness Month, in this blog, we’ll explore the ways diabetes can impact the bladder, whether urinary tract problems could be a sign of untreated diabetes, and why it’s important to address both conditions.

Diabetes is a complex metabolic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. In Iowa 231,984 adults have been diagnosed with diabetes, an additional 70,000 people are thought to have the disease but don’t know it and 820,000 Iowans or 34.1% of the adult population have prediabetes with blood glucose levels that are higher than normal but not yet high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes.

While diabetes is well-known for its impact on blood sugar levels and various organs, there’s a lesser-known connection as to how diabetes can affect bladder health.

Understanding Diabetes and Its Impact on the Body:

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder that occurs when the body’s ability to produce or use insulin is impaired. Insulin is a hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar (glucose) levels. There are two primary types of diabetes: type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune condition where the body doesn’t produce insulin, and type 2 diabetes, a condition where the body’s cells become resistant to insulin’s effects.

Both types of diabetes have far-reaching consequences for the body. Elevated blood sugar levels, if left uncontrolled, can lead to a host of complications, such as cardiovascular disease, kidney damage, nerve damage, and eye problems. The connection between diabetes and bladder health lies in the impact on the nerves and blood vessels that play a crucial role in bladder function.

The Diabetes-Bladder Connection:

1. Neuropathy: One of the most significant links between diabetes and bladder health is diabetic neuropathy, a condition in which prolonged high blood sugar levels damage nerves throughout the body. This nerve damage can affect various parts of the body, including the bladder. When the nerves responsible for controlling the bladder are damaged, it can lead to bladder dysfunction.
2. Overactive Bladder (OAB): Diabetic neuropathy can result in an overactive bladder, a condition characterized by a frequent, strong urge to urinate, often leading to incontinence. The damaged nerves may misinterpret signals from the bladder, causing it to contract uncontrollably. OAB can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life.
3. Urinary retention: Nerve damage in diabetes can also impair the ability to fully empty the bladder. When the bladder doesn’t empty completely, it can lead to urinary tract infections (UTIs) and urinary retention, making it more challenging to control urination.
4. Urinary Incontinence: High blood sugar levels can also affect the bladder muscles. Weakened bladder muscles may result in stress incontinence, where pressure on the bladder (such as coughing or sneezing) causes urine leakage. Managing diabetes effectively can help reduce the risk of urinary incontinence.
5. UTIs: The inability to empty the bladder fully and changes in the urinary tract due to diabetes can make individuals more susceptible to urinary tract infections. UTIs are not only painful but can also worsen overall bladder health.

Managing Diabetes to Preserve Bladder Health:

1. Blood Sugar Control: The most crucial step in preserving bladder health for individuals with diabetes is to maintain good blood sugar control. Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels, following a proper diet, taking prescribed medications or insulin, and adhering to a healthy lifestyle can help prevent or slow down diabetic neuropathy.
2. Medications and Therapies: Some medications and therapies can help manage bladder symptoms caused by diabetic neuropathy. Your healthcare provider may recommend medications that relax the bladder or provide other treatments to alleviate overactive bladder symptoms.
3. Kegel Exercises: For individuals experiencing stress incontinence, Kegel exercises can be beneficial. These exercises strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, helping improve bladder control.
4. Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Adopting a healthy lifestyle is vital in managing diabetes and maintaining bladder health. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and weight management can help reduce the risk of complications associated with diabetes.
5. Regular Check-ups: Frequent check-ups with your healthcare provider are essential. They can help monitor your blood sugar levels, assess your bladder health, and make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

High blood sugar levels, if left uncontrolled, can damage nerves, blood vessels, and organs throughout the body. This nerve and vascular damage is the key link between diabetes and bladder health.

If you or a loved one are experiencing any bladder-related concerns, it’s important l to seek expert guidance. We encourage you to consult with a Board-Certified urologist at the Mason City Clinic who can provide specialized care, address your questions, and tailor a treatment plan to your unique needs. By proactively managing both diabetes and bladder health, you can lead a more fulfilling and healthier life.