If you experience urine leakage or incontinency, recurring urinary tract infections, problems in emptying the bladder, or similar symptoms – you are not alone. These are common complaints among people with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). To receive accurate diagnosis and treatment, your doctor might recommend urodynamic testing.
Urodynamic testing examines the bladder’s sphincters and urethra’s ability to store and release urine.
Some urodynamic tests (according to the specific condition) may include:
Uroflowmetry – measures urine flow rate and volume. If the urine flow is blocked or the bladder muscles are weak, the results will be abnormal.
Postvoid Residual Measurement – using ultrasound or a catheter to measure the amount of urine left in the bladder after urination (postvoid residual).
Electromyography – uses sensors to measure the muscles and nerves electrical activity in and around the bladder and the sphincters.
Video Urodynamic Tests – using imaging equipment to take videos and pictures of the bladder during emptying and filling. These tests contribute valuable information on the urethral and bladder function and show the bladder’s shape and size.
Cystometric Test – uses catheters to measure the pressure inside the bladder as it stores urine, the urine volume the bladder can contain, and how full the bladder is when urination begins. The test can also measure involuntary bladder contractions.
Leak Point Pressure Measurement – during a cystometric test, if the bladder suddenly contracts and leaks urine, this test measures the pressure at the point of leakage.
Pressure Flow Study – uses a manometer to measure bladder pressure and flow rate, after the cystometric test, while emptying the bladder.
As always, it is important to talk about these tests with your treating physician to determine whether or not baseline and follow-up urodynamic testing is warranted.
This content is provided for your general education and information only. It does not necessarily reflect Belong’s views and opinions. Belong does not endorse or support any specific product, service, or treatment.
