What is the term for the involuntary leakage of urine due to bladder overactivity?

The term for involuntary leakage of urine due to bladder overactivity is known as urge incontinence. This condition is characterized by a sudden and intense urge to urinate, often accompanied by an involuntary loss of urine. It typically occurs when the bladder muscles contract excessively or inappropriately, leading to the urgent need to urinate that the individual may not be able to manage effectively.

In contrast, stress incontinence involves leakage during activities that increase pressure on the bladder, such as coughing or exercising, while functional incontinence relates to physical or cognitive impairments that hinder a person's ability to reach the restroom in time. Overflow incontinence is associated with the bladder not emptying properly, resulting in urine leakage due to overdistension rather than an overactive bladder. Understanding these distinct types of incontinent behavior is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment strategies in individuals experiencing micturition disorders.