What is the Difference Between Overactive Bladder and Urge Incontinence?

Overactive bladder (OAB) and urge incontinence are related but distinct conditions. Here are the main differences between the two:

Overactive Bladder (OAB): OAB is a syndrome characterized by urinary urgency, with or without incontinence, nocturia, and urinary frequency. It causes a person to urinate more frequently and feel a sudden and intense need to urinate. OAB is not a condition in itself but a group of symptoms that can be caused by various factors, including lifestyle and underlying medical conditions.
Urge Incontinence: Urge incontinence describes having the urge to void immediately preceding or accompanying involuntary urine leakage. It occurs when a person leaks urine following an intense and uncontrollable urge to urinate. Urge incontinence is a type of incontinence that can be caused by conditions other than OAB, such as neurological diseases, surgery, or infections.

Although OAB and urge incontinence often occur together, they are not the same thing. Not everyone with OAB will experience urge incontinence, and other conditions can cause urge incontinence aside from OAB. If you experience any changes in your urination patterns, including frequency and urgency, it is essential to consult a doctor for the correct diagnosis and treatment.

On this page

What is the Difference Between Overactive Bladder and Urge Incontinence?

Comparative Table: Overactive Bladder vs Urge Incontinence

Overactive bladder (OAB) and urge incontinence are related but distinct conditions. Here is a table highlighting the differences between the two:

Feature	Overactive Bladder (OAB)	Urge Incontinence
Definition	A group of symptoms that cause sudden, intense urges to urinate, often when the bladder is not full.	Involves the leakage of urine following an intense and uncontrollable urge to urinate.
Symptoms	Urinary urgency, frequency, and nocturia (one or more voids after falling asleep and a return to sleep after voiding).	The uncontrolled flow of urine from the bladder, often resulting in small or large volumes of urine leakage.
Causes	Disturbances in nerves, smooth muscle, and urothelium can lead to OAB.	Urge incontinence occurs when the urge to urinate causes leaking.
Relationship	OAB can lead to urge incontinence, but not everyone with OAB will experience urge incontinence.	Although urge incontinence is often associated with OAB, it can also be caused by other conditions.
Treatment	Treatments for OAB target symptoms of urge and frequency of urination.	Treatments for urge incontinence depend on the underlying cause and may include lifestyle changes, pelvic floor exercises, or medication.

It is important to note that while OAB and urge incontinence are related, they are not the same thing. Many people with OAB may experience urge incontinence, but not all cases of urge incontinence are due to OAB.

Guilherme Mazui

Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.