Updates from Dr. Donnica

Make A Difference in Your Life, it's National Bladder Health Awareness Month

November 1, 2010

November is Bladder Health Awareness Month, a great time to think about whether you are happy with your bladder care. In partnership with Medtronic, clinics throughout the country are hosting fun and informative Girls' Time Out events this month to inspire sufferers to face the moments when they have struggled with bladder control problems - and courageously move forward. You’ve heard me encourage you to attend these events throughout October. Well, the time is now!

• Take a Girls’ Time Out

What else can you do during Bladder Health Awareness Month to make a difference in your own life or someone else’s? Talk to a friend about bladder health. Make an appointment to see your doctor. Share this website with friends or on your facebook page. You can use the share button on the upper right corner of this page. If you already are on a treatment for a bladder control issue but you’re not getting the relief you need, look into other options. Only you know what you’re experiencing individually and can do something about it. Good luck!

Don't Face Bladder Control Issues Alone

October 28, 2010

Can anyone tell me where the year is going? I can’t believe it’s already the end of October! I hope many of you have already signed up for a Girls’ Time Out event in early November to learn more about bladder health and also have a little fun with some old or new friends. If not, check out whether an event is scheduled for your area.

I realize that even though women tend to talk about everything under the sun, including various health topics, bladder problems are something that are often too embarrassing to discuss, even with our best friends. Not only is it tough to bring up these details with your doctor, but  it feels even more strange to discuss such intimate topics with someone who knows you well. But since one in six American adults suffers from bladder control problems – and many of them are women – the chances are quite good you have at least one friend who is dealing with the same or a similar bladder control issue. You just don’t know it!

There is both strength and comfort in numbers – and especially among women. Inviting a few friends to a Girls’ Time Out event is a simple way to start the conversation with them. Then, grab dinner or coffee afterwards and chat about what you learned. Every day I am amazed by and thankful for the difference friends can make in each other’s lives.

Know the Symptoms of Overactive Bladder (OAB)

October 25, 2010

Do you use the bathroom more than eight times per day or more than once at night? Do you have a strong and sudden urge to go to the bathroom? If you answered yes to these questions, you should know that this is not normal and that these are typical symptoms of overactive bladder (OAB), a  treatable medical problem.

• How Much Are Bladder Control Issues Affecting Your Life?

There are several types of bladder control problems, all of which have a range of treatment options that can be discussed with your doctor. The important things are to be aware of your specific circumstances, to talk to your doctor and to ask about treatments that might be best suited for you. If you aren’t getting the information you want, it may be worth seeing a specialist. Primary care doctors, while wonderful for many conditions, may not be as knowledgeable as a specialist about bladder health

• Are you seeing the right doctor?

You also can take advantage of an opportunity to meet a bladder health specialist at an upcoming Girls’ Time Out event in November. It’s an easy way to learn more and meet a bladder health expert who may be able to help you.

Bladder control issues are NOT a normal part of aging

October 21, 2010

I’ve been interviewed many times on national and local TV shows about bladder control problems, but it always surprises me how little the media – and women throughout the country –  know about them. Yet so many people suffer from bladder control loss issues. It’s time we do something about this!

It is important to know that bladder control issues are not just a part of being a woman – and NOT a normal part of aging. You don’t need to let your bladder control your life. Take control of the situation and talk to your doctor. Because there are several different types of bladder control problems, you need to be sure to clearly communicate your symptoms and concerns with your doctor. Check this section of the website to find key questions to help in that conversation.

I also encourage you to sign up for a Girls’ Time Out event if one is being held in your area next month. Bring a few friends along for support. You’ll all learn valuable information about bladder health and the simple but essential importance of taking an active role in managing our own health. And you’ll have some fun, too!

Turn Anxiety Into Action

October 18, 2010

Did you know that as many as 33 million American adults – or one in six – suffer from bladder control problems?¹ If you experience bladder problems, then you are  familiar with the profound impact they can have on your life.

Many people with bladder control problems suffer in silence because of the fear and embarrassment of frequent bathroom trips and even wetting episodes.  Bladder control problems can affect all aspects of a person’s life - from personal relationships and career to family and everyday activities.  They can also affect self-esteem and sexual experiences and cause sleep deprivation, which can also have negative consequences.

Many sufferers are hesitant to discuss this condition even with their doctors.  The Facing Our Moments Together campaign is all about turning that anxiety into action.  On this website you get valuable information about bladder conditions and treatments, including a great opportunity to attend an upcoming Girls’ Time Out event as part of November’s Bladder Health Awareness Month. You’ll learn more about bladder control problems and get a chance to talk to a bladder health expert. Now is the time to face YOUR bladder control problems.