Name of the Condition

• Urge Incontinence
• Also known as Overactive Bladder (OAB), Spasmodic Bladder

Summary

• Urge incontinence is a condition characterized by a sudden, intense urge to urinate, followed by an involuntary loss of urine. It's a common type of urinary incontinence often caused by involuntary bladder muscle contractions.

Causes

• Overactive bladder muscles
• Neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease, stroke, or multiple sclerosis
• Urinary tract infections
• Bladder abnormalities, including tumors or stones
• Excessive consumption of caffeine or alcohol

Risk Factors

• Age, as the condition is more common in older adults
• Gender, with women being more susceptible due to childbirth and menopause
• Obesity, which increases pressure on the bladder
• Certain medications that increase urine production

Symptoms

• A sudden, intense urge to urinate
• Frequent urination (more than eight times in 24 hours)
• Unintentional loss of urine immediately following an urgent need to void

Diagnosis

• Patient history and physical examination
• Bladder diary to track urination patterns
• Urinalysis to check for infections or blood
• Urodynamic tests to assess bladder function

Treatment Options

• Lifestyle changes, such as fluid management and bladder training
• Medications to relax bladder muscles or strengthen pelvic support
• Pelvic floor exercises (Kegel exercises) to enhance bladder control
• Electrical nerve stimulation or surgery in severe cases

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• With appropriate treatment, many patients experience significant improvement.
• Regular follow-ups are important to adjust treatment plans and monitor for any changes.

Complications

• Frequent urinary tract infections
• Skin problems, such as rashes or sores due to wet skin
• Emotional distress or social embarrassment

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Maintain a healthy weight and diet
• Limit intake of bladder irritants like caffeine and alcohol
• Regular pelvic floor exercises to strengthen bladder support
• Follow scheduled bathroom breaks to reduce urgency

When to Seek Professional Help

• Experience sudden and frequent urges to urinate that disrupt daily activities
• Notice a change in urinary habits or control
• Have drinks leading to excessive urination or discomfort

Additional Resources

• National Association for Continence (www.nafc.org)
• American Urological Association (www.auanet.org)
• Bladder Health Support Groups

Tips for Medical Coders

• Use ICD-10 code N39.41 for urge incontinence.
• Ensure documentation specifies "urge incontinence" rather than general urinary incontinence when coding.
• Review associated conditions or causes documented in medical records to ensure accurate coding.