What increases my risk for overactive bladder?

Age is one major risk factor for this condition although conditions that occur in older people may themselves increase risk. Overactive bladder may be due to changes in the part of the nervous system that controls the inhibition of bladder muscles. Therefore, stroke or dementia may increase your risk of overactive bladder by their effects on this part of the nervous system.

Hormonal factors may also increase ones risk for overactive bladder. Women who have completed menopause have lower estrogen levels, leading to thinning of the tissue in the vagina which may exacerbate the symptoms of overactive bladder. Diabetes and prostate enlargement may also increase your risk of having bladder troubles.