Cohort Study: Perceptual Urge Sensation

Over the past few years it has become clear that our understanding of bladder physiology is inadequate to explain urge incontinence. This has forced us to re-evaluate what we know and do not know about bladder function and dysfunction. This has led to the identification and study of novel systems within the bladder that may contribute to abnormal sensations.

The investigators now suspect that the organic changes occurring in the bladder are not the whole story. For one group of patients with pathological urge there is growing evidence suggesting that there may be a strong psychological component. The idea now being put forward is that normal afferent peripheral information is perceived as abnormal and excessive, resulting in an increased desire to go to the bathroom: 'perceptual urge'. It is important to identify this group of patients since it will direct their treatment towards more cognitive approaches. Also, if such a psychological aetiology can be eliminated it would lead to a more focused and effective management of peripheral pathology with surgery or pharmacology.