One of the many unfortunate consequences of disease progression, diabetic bladder occurs in individuals whose nerve endings in the digestive system have been compromised. Where a normally functioning bladder sends and receives signals about 4 – 6 times a day indicating it is full and needs to be emptied, a diabetic neurogenic bladder remains full, unable to complete the cycle of urination. This can mean that urine is held in the body or leaks uncontrollably. Either scenario is not only embarrassing, but life threatening.

Urine held in the body increases fluid volume, which is dangerous for the diabetic. Excess urine can back up into the kidneys and cause renal failure. When the body is incapable of voiding, soon thereafter other systems begin to rapidly shut down.  It is important to alert your doctor if you are having any problems urinating. There are several steps to take to diagnose and then …