Which condition is characterized by urinary urgency and/or frequency with or without incontinence?

Which condition is characterized by urinary urgency and/or frequency with or without incontinence?

• A. Stress incontinence
• B. Overactive bladder (OAB)
• C. Urinary tract infection
• D. Benign prostatic hyperplasia

Answer: (B)

Urgency with or without incontinence, along with increased daytime frequency (and often nocturia), points to a storage-bladder problem. Overactive bladder is defined by a sudden, compelling urge to void that is difficult to defer, with or without urge incontinence, and is typically accompanied by more frequent daytime voiding and nighttime awakenings. This distinguishes it from other conditions: stress incontinence leaks with physical exertion rather than an urgent need to void; a urinary tract infection can cause urgent symptoms but is defined by infection signs and other symptoms like dysuria or fever; benign prostatic hyperplasia mainly causes obstructive or voiding symptoms and weaker flow rather than a primary urge to urinate. The pattern of urgency plus frequency with or without leakage best fits overactive bladder.