A reduction in salt intake improves the symptoms of overactive bladder

This study investigated the effects of salt intake reduction on overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms. Researchers suggested that the reduction in salt intake improved OAB symptoms.

OAB consists of urinary urgency with or without urge incontinence (leakage of urine). It is present in 16 to 19% of patients with urinary symptoms. Medication is often given to these patients. However, medication is often associated with negative side effects, especially in the elderly.   

Excessive salt intake is associated with metabolic diseases and other complications such as high blood pressure. Moreover, a high salt intake can also induce OAB symptoms. Therefore, diet changes might improve OAB symptoms. However, the effect of salt reduction in patients with OAB is not well understood.

This study included 98 patients with OAB. All participants received diet advice and health education every 4 weeks for 12 weeks. The daily salt intake was assessed by testing urine samples.

71 patients (72.4%; group 1) effectively reduced their daily salt intake after 12 weeks, while 27 (27.6%; group 2) did not. OAB symptoms improved significantly in group 1, while no significant changes were seen in group 2.

After 12 weeks, 17 (23.9%) patients from group 1 no longer had criteria for OAB after a reduction of salt intake.

This study concluded that a reduction of salt intake improves OAB symptoms.

This study included a limited number of participants and did not include a control group such as a placebo. This might affect the results. Therefore, further studies with a bigger population are necessary.