What do I need to know about keeping a void diary?
Answer:
We all enjoy the feeling that we’re in control of our bodies. Whether starting a new diet, maintaining a gym routine, doing yoga or walking the dog, we should all care deeply about the exercise our bodies receive and the effects of the foods we consume. But there’s one area in which 25 million Americans lose control as they grow older. A private issue that many are reserved about.
In the fight against incontinence and OAB, many urologists suggest patients keep a voiding diary. A voiding diary is exactly what its name suggests: a diary that tracks what you’re eating and drinking throughout the day, your trips to the restroom, urges throughout the day and any leakages that may occur.
Voiding diaries are generally kept in 48 to 72 hour spans, which allows for a glimpse into patients’ eating habits, daily stressors and lifestyle choices that may have an effect on bladder control and leakages. Each day may look different, so it’s important to closely monitor your fluid intake, urges and leakage for the best data.
Most voiding diaries look similar, and your urologist will curate and provide a voiding diary based on your symptoms and episodes. Here’s an example of what your diary may include.
Time/ Type of Fluid
From the first sip of coffee to your last glass of water before bed, you need to note what you’re drinking and when you drink it.
Amount Voided
Use a measuring tool, most commonly a measuring cup, to get an accurate measurement of the void amount. Include this information in your void diary and note the time.
Leakage/ Accidents
It’s important to note any leakage or accidents, no matter how small, as these events may suggest specific times of the day when your bladder control is weakest.
Urge
Was there a strong urge to urinate at the time you experienced leakage? Yes/No
Activity
What were you doing when the leakage occurred? Right before? Right after? These are important bits of information and should not be left out of your void diary.
Remember, a voiding diary only works if you stick to the plan and accurately track your leakage. With the right urology team, your voiding diary becomes a valuable resource in your path to leakage prevention, confidence and a healthier, happier urological life.
Dr. Jonathan Henderson Arkansas Urology 1300 Centerview Dr. Little Rock, AR 72211 1-877-321-8452 www.arkansasurology.com