Vejiga Hiperactiva y Calidad de Vida

Abstract

Introduction: Overactive bladder (OAB) is a problem with bladder-storage function that causes a sudden urge to urinate. The urge may be difficult to stop, and overactive bladder may lead to the involuntary loss of urine (incontinence). It represents a health disorder that in recent decades  has become important because of its implications on the lives of those affected. It has a prevalence of 35% in women over 18 years, increasing this figure with increasing age; it can also affect men, but with a lower prevalence. There are multiple consequences of OAB: sexual dysfunction, increased risk of falls, mood disorders and an overall decreased quality of life. The identification of the main affected areas, is the first step in establishing a plan of action to improve the quality of life of people with OAB. Methodology: a review of databases: Web of Science, Psycinfo, Scopus and Theseus, from 2002 to 2014, on the influence of overactive bladder in the quality of life. Results: the main affected areas are: sexuality, performing daily activities, psychological (anxiety and depression) and sleep disorders. Conclusions: a special attention from healthcare professionals about OAB is needed. It would also be desirable to establish plans for prevention and intervention to reduce the consequences of the OAB and lessen their impact on the quality of life.