Atony of bladder, also known as bladder atony or flaccid bladder, refers to a condition characterized by a loss of muscle tone or weakness in the detrusor muscle of the urinary bladder. The detrusor muscle is responsible for contracting and relaxing to allow the storage and expulsion of urine from the bladder.
In atony of bladder, the detrusor muscle becomes weak and is unable to contract effectively, resulting in a diminished ability to empty urine completely. This can lead to urinary retention, where the bladder does not empty fully, causing discomfort and an increased risk of urinary tract infections.
Common causes of bladder atony include nerve damage, often associated with conditions such as diabetes, multiple sclerosis, or spinal cord injuries. Other factors that can contribute to this condition include medications, pelvic surgery, childbirth trauma, or chronic bladder inflammation.
Symptoms of bladder atony may include difficulty initiating urination, weak urine flow, frequent urination, increased urgency, incomplete emptying of the bladder, or recurrent urinary tract infections.
Treatment options for atony of bladder primarily focus on managing the underlying cause and improving bladder emptying. This may involve lifestyle modifications, such as timed voiding or double voiding techniques, pelvic floor exercises to strengthen the muscles supporting the bladder, medications to promote bladder contractions, or the use of catheterization to drain the bladder if necessary.
It is important to seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms of bladder atony, as proper diagnosis and treatment can help alleviate symptoms and prevent complications.
