OAB Testing & Diagnosis

Testing for Overactive Bladder

A number of tests may be performed during or after your visit, depending on the patient’s history and evaluation. These can be done right in the same office, most often at the same time as your appointment. All of the information from your history is important and will also be used to make an accurate diagnosis.

Urinalysis

This evaluates for any blood in the urine or infection.

Post-void Residual

The physician will often ask you to void and then check to make sure you are emptying your bladder.

Urine Flow

The physician may have you urinate in a funnel to assess the speed of your urinary stream.

Cystoscopy

This is a procedure performed in the office where the physician inserts a small scope into the urethra to assess for any abnormalities.

Urodynamics

Urodynamics is the gold standard test to evaluate for overactive bladder.  This is a minimally invasive test that takes only 5-10 minutes where a small catheter is placed in the bladder and the bladder is then filled.  The pressure in the bladder is measured during filling and pressure increases (involuntary contractions) during filling are the hallmark of an overactive bladder.

The Diagnosis of Overactive Bladder

The diagnosis of overactive bladder (OAB) is primarily done by a thorough medical history and possibly one or more tests to help measure the severity of a bladder’s dysfunction.

During your visit, your doctor will ask you questions regarding your medical history relating to your symptoms and will perform an exam with the focus being on your abdomen and genitalia. A voiding diary may also be given to patients to help understand their symptoms and causes.

All of the information from your history and any tests performed will be used to make an accurate diagnosis and to help develop a treatment plan that is right for you.