November is Bladder Health Month, a time to raise awareness about one of the body’s most important — and often overlooked — systems. Your bladder plays a vital role in removing waste from your body, yet millions of Americans experience bladder problems each year, from infections and incontinence to overactive bladder and even bladder cancer.
A healthy bladder helps maintain comfort, confidence, and quality of life. When something isn’t working properly, it can impact everything from sleep and physical activity to emotional well-being. Common bladder conditions include:
Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Overactive bladder
Urinary incontinence
Bladder stones
Bladder cancer
Understanding early symptoms — such as pain or burning during urination, frequent urges to urinate, or changes in urine color — is key to catching problems early.
Good bladder health starts with simple, daily habits:
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help flush bacteria.
Limit caffeine and alcohol: These can irritate the bladder and increase urgency.
Don’t hold it: Empty your bladder when you feel the urge — holding urine for long periods can weaken bladder muscles.
Maintain a healthy weight: Extra weight puts pressure on your bladder and pelvic floor.
Exercise your pelvic floor: Kegel exercises help strengthen muscles that control urination.
At Thorek Memorial Hospital, our Urology Department provides comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for bladder and urinary conditions. From testing and imaging to minimally invasive procedures, our specialists offer compassionate, personalized care to help you get back to feeling your best.
Schedule an appointment: 773-525-6780
Learn more: thorek.org/specialties-and-services/urology