Urodynamics are bladder function tests. If you are suffering from urinary issues, doctors can perform a urodynamics study to help diagnose the cause of the problem(s). Whether it’s urinary incontinence, a blockage, or a neurologic condition, the information gathered from a urodynamics study will help your physician diagnose and properly treat a wide variety of disorders of the lower urinary tract. Your lower urinary tract includes the bladder and the urethra.
Symptoms of Urologic Abnormalities and Diseases
There are many different types of urinary problems and they can be caused by various disorders and conditions. Typical urinary symptoms can include:
- Urinary incontinence (unable to control urination)
- Difficulty urinating or emptying your bladder
- Frequent urination
- Urinary urgency
- Recurring urinary tract infections (UTI)
- Bloody or cloudy urine
- Pain in your abdomen, lower back or sides
- Fever, nausea or vomiting
- Loss of feeling that the bladder is full
What to Expect during a Urodynamics Study (UDS)
A urodynamics study usually performed by a specially trained nurse or technician as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia. A very small catheter is placed through the urethra into the bladder. The bladder is filled with fluid so that pressures can be monitored. A second small catheter may also be placed just inside the anal opening to help measure the pressures that occur around the bladder during normal functioning. Special UDS equipment collects volume, pressure and flow measurements.There are several urodynamic tests which your doctor may use to better understand your condition. The data is recorded and interpreted by a bladder specialist to help your urologist determine the best way to treat your urinary problems.
What to Expect after a Urodynamics Study
The tests are fairly brief and most patients have few symptoms. Common symptoms following UDS can include pain or burning during urination and a small amount of blood in the urine. These symptoms should lessen within a day or two. If you develop a fever, or symptoms persist, please call your urologist.