Some 15% of Irish people experience symptoms of an overactive bladder (OAB), yet almost 90% do not go to their doctor for help when this first occurs, research has shown.

Members of the public who are affected by this condition are being encouraged to take action and improve their bladder control.

According to consultant gynaecologist and president of the Continence Foundation of Ireland, Dr Suzanne O'Sullivan, OAB symptoms ‘are more common than people realise'.

"When you have OAB, you usually need to urinate more frequently and may have a very strong urge that makes you rush to the toilet, and can wake you up at night. It can be socially embarrassing for some people and it shouldn't be. Always visit your GP to find out how to manage any symptoms you have," she commented.

This week is World Continence Week and this year's event is focusing on preventing bladder problems and strenghtening the pelvic floor.

"World Continence Week is so important because it's aiming to draw attention to and increase public awareness about incontinence and bladder control issues, and give sufferers the confidence to seek help and improve their quality of life," Dr O'Sullivan said.

According to physiotherapist, Maeve Whelan, a leaky bladder ‘does not have to take over your life and cause embarrassment'. She insisted that there are simple solutions people can try to reduce urinary inconteinence.

"For example, a pelvic floor exercise called a Kegel is great to do every day. Kegels work by squeezing pelvic floor muscles as if you're trying to stop urinating. Get into the habit of doing them daily - about three times a day. They can stop leakage or significantly prevent it," she explained.

Ms Whelan has devised some simple tips to help people to manage their bladder control:
-Exercise - pelvic floor exercises streghten the pelvic floor muscles, which helps to prevent or control urinary inconteinence. These exercises can be done discreetly at any time
-Cut out caffeine and alcohol - both drinks make you produce more urine
-Do not avoid water - you should still drink six to eight glasses per day, but cut back in the evening if you leak at night. If you do not consume water, the body will still make urine, but this will be concentrated, which can irritate the lining of the bladder, causing more of an urge
-Keep track of your symptoms using a ‘bladder diary'. Record things like when you go to the toilet, when you have a leakage and how much fluids you consume
-Watch what you eat as extra body fat can lead to urine leaks
-Take control. Speak to your GP if you are worried. You can also get more information from www.oab.ie, which provides a self-assessment questionnaire, a free bladder diary and helpful videos.

World Continence Week runs until June 26.