Have you ever wondered what makes you pee more? Bloated? or what causes your bladder pain? Well...today is your day! Here's the #tea on #bladder irritants!
So, what is a bladder irritant?
A bladder irritant is a substance or factor that can cause irritation to the bladder lining, leading to discomfort and potential urinary symptoms. These irritants can exacerbate conditions like overactive bladder or interstitial cystitis. Common bladder irritants include:
Caffeinated Drinks: Coffee, tea, and energy drinks contain caffeine, which can stimulate the bladder and increase urgency.
Carbonated Beverages: Soda and other fizzy drinks can irritate the bladder due to their carbonation.
Alcohol: Beer, wine, and spirits can have a diuretic effect and irritate the bladder lining.
Spicy Foods and Highly Acidic Foods: Peppers, hot sauces, and other spicy foods and citrus fruits may trigger bladder discomfort.
Artificial Sweeteners: Substances like saccharin (found in diet sodas) can be bladder irritants for some individuals.
Why is it important for us to know about bladder irritants in pelvic floor physical therapy?
Because these may be a big part of what is causing your incontinence!
What happens is that the acidity level and pH level of the beverages or foods you are eating/drinking irritates the lining of the bladder. The bladder then wants to get these things out of your system as fast as it can, and this can cause the sensation of needing to urinate.
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