Bladder control is a complex process in the body, but the idea is simple. Urine is stored in the bladder. As urine builds up, sphincter muscles hold the bladder closed. When the bladder is full, one starts to feel the urge. Then brain signals the detrusor muscle to empty the bladder. On an average, a person needs to empty the bladder 6 to 8 times each day with a gap of 3 to 4 hours. People with overactive bladder feel like they need to urinate more often, probably 10 to 12 times or more.

Over Active Bladder (OAB) is a condition wherein the frequency of passing urine along with urgency presents itself repeatedly in spite of voiding the bladder. OAB does not always cause urinary leakage, but if leakage is there it might be most distressing symptom. Reducing on liquid diet could help. It may feel embarrassing in meetings, restaurants, grocery stores or shopping malls because finding a bathroom quickly and discretely may not be always possible. To avoid such situations, people usually time the liquids carefully. In new surroundings, quickly familiarize with bathroom locations. Take a bathroom break before work or meeting starts. Also, one may be on some medication that contributes to bladder problems. If so, consult your doctor.

Poor sleep and day to day stress take a toll on energy levels. Plus they contribute to an overactive bladder. Cutting caffeine and alcohol is critical. You may also need to reduce stress in your daily life. Make sure you're relaxing yourself enough and practice good sleep habits. Remember, it's too easy to become isolated, which makes life less satisfying.

Kegel exercise (Pelvic Muscle exercise) help build strength in Detrusor muscle that controls the bladder. It's important to learn to do these exercises correctly. A class of drugs called anticholinergics can help control the urges of overactive bladder. They work by relaxing the bladder muscle. If you want to avoid medication for your overactive bladder, you may discuss your options with your doctor. OAB / incontinence both are treatable.