How to Keep OAB from Spoiling Your Fun
A misbehaving bladder is never easy to handle, but when schedules shift to holiday mode, it can become an even bigger challenge. Your symptoms may not change too much, but the fierce urge to go, frequent trips to the bathroom, and threat of leaks could have you dreading festive events.
You may not be able to get rid of your symptoms completely, but some careful planning can help you avoid uncomfortable and embarrassing situations. Follow these eight tips to manage your OAB without sacrificing your holiday spirit:
1. Find a New Favorite Mocktail
Since alcohol is a major bladder irritant and a diuretic, you should steer clear of the booze over the holidays. That can be easier said than done, especially when work parties, festive dinners, and other seasonal gatherings roll around.
If giving up your celebratory drink (or two) seems like a big sacrifice, you can soften the blow by finding a delicious alternative. Mocktails — alcohol-free cocktails — can be fancy enough to feel like an indulgence, but much easier on your bladder than beer or wine. Play around with some different flavor combinations, or check recipes online for inspiration.
Studies have shown that the less you understand your condition, the harder it is to manage. Start by breaking through these misconceptions about OAB.