Overactive bladder (OAB) is the term given to the condition of frequent urination, often accompanied by sudden urgency. Approximately 33 million adults in the United States are afflicted with this condition. Although OAB is not a life-threatening condition, it can significantly impair one's quality of life. Patients with OAB oftentimes find their lives ruled by their bladder since they feel compelled to limit their social life, travel, and sexual activity due to the fear of being caught in an embarrassing situation.

Many people mistakenly assume that OAB is a natural part of aging and is something they just have to deal with. OAB generally occurs when abnormal messages are sent from the brain to the bladder muscle to squeeze too much or too soon. The bladder may squeeze hard enough to make urine leak out before you can make it to the bathroom. This type of urine loss is called "urge incontinence." OAB can occur at any age.

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