The Better Bladder Book

Book excerpt: Bladder problems affect millions of people, yet few are comfortable publicly or openly discussing their symptoms, making it difficult for patients with bladder disorders to obtain the support and resources they need. Those who've been diagnosed with interstitial cystitis (IC) or chronic pelvic pain are often told that there is no cure for their ailments. Indeed, standard treatments used with these conditions are not always effective or lasting. As a result, many people with bladder problems are looking for comprehensive information and alternative options for recovery. Wendy Cohan wrote The Better Bladder Book to give people who suffer from bladder problems more options. She guides readers to bladder wellness by emphasizing lifestyle changes and self-treatment. A week-by-week approach begins with an understanding of the diagnosis, leads to discovering the factors that cause or exacerbate symptoms, and ends with implementing the changes needed to reduce symptoms and recover bladder health. Cohan introduces the book with a description of the anatomy and function of the urological system and the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of typical bladder problems. She explains how diet affects the bladder, including the role of food sensitivities, allergies, and intolerance. She creates handy lists of healthful and harmful foods and offers a selection of diets to try, especially allergy elimination, gluten-free, and anti-inflammatory diets. Optional weekly meal plans are included. Like all aspects of health, bladder health is improved by daily exercise, good rest, and a reduction of stress. Cohan describes the benefits of regular exercise on bladder symptoms, its role in stress and pain reduction, boosting the immune system, controlling inflammation, and alleviating depression. Stress reduction techniques are also emphasized. Finally, Cohan supplies tips for a better night's sleep, including practicing good sleep hygiene, additional relaxation exercises, and the use of calming herbal teas. Cohan's goal is to leave no stone unturned in the quest for bladder health. With the diet, exercise, sleep, and relaxation techniques described in the book, the thorough description of medical treatments and procedures, and the question and answer section and other resources, readers should have all the information they need to start their own journey toward better bladder health.