Chicago City Wire

November is recognized as Bladder Health Month, focusing on the importance of bladder health and the prevalence of related conditions among Americans. The bladder plays a crucial role in eliminating waste from the body, yet many people face issues such as infections, incontinence, overactive bladder, stones, or cancer each year.

Bladder problems can affect daily life, including sleep, physical activity, and emotional well-being. Some common symptoms include pain or burning during urination, frequent urges to urinate, and changes in urine color. Recognizing these early signs is important for timely intervention.

Preventative steps for maintaining bladder health include staying hydrated by drinking water throughout the day to help flush bacteria, limiting caffeine and alcohol intake due to their potential to irritate the bladder, avoiding holding urine for extended periods to prevent weakening of bladder muscles, maintaining a healthy weight to reduce pressure on the bladder and pelvic floor, and performing pelvic floor exercises like Kegels to strengthen muscles involved in urination.

Thorek Memorial Hospital offers diagnosis and treatment for a range of bladder and urinary conditions through its Urology Department. Services include testing, imaging, and minimally invasive procedures. According to the hospital, “At Thorek Memorial Hospital, our Urology Department provides comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for bladder and urinary conditions. From testing and imaging to minimally invasive procedures, our specialists offer compassionate, personalized care to help you get back to feeling your best.”

More information about urology services at Thorek Memorial Hospital can be found at thorek.org/specialties-and-services/urology.