Located in the pelvic area, right behind the pubic bone is a muscular sac called the bladder. It roughly resembles a pear in size and shape. Urine is made in the kidneys and travels down tubes called ureters. It is then deposited in the bladder. Since the bladder is a muscle, it stretches to hold approximately 600mL of urine. Urination is a voluntary action due to the muscular formation of the bladder.
1. Health
In order to keep the bladder at full function and optimum health, it is advised that people drink between two and three pints of water a day. An interesting fact about urine is that it is sterile and contains no viruses, fungi or germs. So in desperation, it is safe to drink urine.
2. How the Bladder Works
The bladder is able to control urine by way of sphincter muscles in the urethra. The outer sphincter muscle is controlled voluntarily, and prevents urine leakage. However, the urinary tract, including the bladder is susceptible to infection. These infections are easily treated with antibiotics. In rare circumstances, surgery can help in the case of Interstitial Cystitis, which is an inflammation of the bladder wall.
3. Rate of Bladder Cancer
Approximately 75,000 Americans get bladder cancer yearly. Bladder cancer affects men more often than women. Symptoms of bladder cancer are back or pelvic pain, difficult or urgent urination, or frequent urination. These symptoms do mimic other infections or conditions of the urinary system, however a physician will know what to look for and test for.
4. Testing for Issues
A physician will use a variety of tests to check for bladder issues. These are Urinalysis, Cystoscopy Urodynamic testing. These tests are performed to determine if there are any problems or issues with the bladder. When a problem is detected, the physician may order one of the following treatments: Cystoscopy which is a tube and light running the length of the urethra to determine the problem; Surgery in the case of bladder cancer, some instances of incontinence and cystocoele; or anti- spasm medication to control the over activity in the bladder and incontinence.
5. Prevention
Kegel exercises are great exercises to aid the person in the starting and stopping of the urination flow from the bladder. Tests and research have shown that this aids in cases of incontinence also. Seeking medical attention is wise when a person notices any change in color, odor or frequency of urination. Problems can also include bladder or kidney stones, which is a buildup of calcium that does not pass through the urethra. Bladder cancer is the 6th most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States. Chemotherapy and Immunotherapy will aid in removal of any cancerous cells found in the patient.