Urological Disorders

Neurogenic Bladder

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.

Problems often associated with a neurogenic bladder:

urine leakage - this often occurs when the muscles holding urine in do not get the right message.
urine retention - this 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 - this 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 resulting from urine that is held too long before being eliminated.

What may cause a neurogenic bladder to occur?

accidents that cause trauma to the brain or spinal cord
heavy metal poisoning
diabetes
acute infections
genetic nerve problems

How is a neurogenic bladder often diagnosed?

When neurogenic bladder is suspected, both the nervous system (including the brain) and the bladder itself are tested. Tests may include x-rays of the skull and spine, or an electroencephalogram (EEG) to identify any brain dysfunction.

Nerves and muscles of the bladder may also be tested, including x-rays of the bladder and ureters. Tests often involve filling the bladder to see how much it can hold and checking to see if the bladder empties completely.

How is neurogenic bladder often treated?

Treatment for neurogenic bladder depends on the cause of the nerve damage, the type of voiding dysfunction that results, the patient's medical profile, severity of symptoms, and a physician's recommendation. Treatment options may include the following:

a catheter to empty the bladder at regular times
medication
an artificial sphincter

This page was last updated on: February 28, 2008.

For more information, call the University Physicians Consultation and Referral Service at 1-800-492-5538 (patients) or 1-800-373-4111 (physicians).