makena43 said:
I just dont want hear take these drugs and you will feel better.
Depending on what is the root of your problem, medication might help. The doctor is likely going to take the most conservative steps first. Diagnosing a UTI is quick and non-invasive. And if it is confirmed that you have one, antibiotics are a conservative treatment, and are very likely to help.
If your doctor does not find a UTI, I would encourage you to be patient, because it could take time to diagnose your problem. Figuring out the source of the problem often means taking time to rule out, step by step, what is
not causing it.
I think if the doctor suspects OAB, they will probably first suggest the conservative approach of modifying your diet to avoid foods and drink that can irritate the bladder. If that doesn't work, they may prescribe meds that relax the bladder. The doctor may want to give that a few weeks to see if you respond. If you respond to OAB meds, I think its a good bet that you do have OAB, and not something else like cystitis (which is treated with different drugs). However, If you don't respond to the meds, it is still possible that you have OAB ("drug refractory OAB"). Further tests (Urodynamics) may be performed to determine if it is OAB or something else.
Why not do a urodymanics test before trying medications? Something to ask your doctor. But a urodymanics test is a bit more invasive, because it involves the insertion of a catheter. It's not really painful. But it isn't exactly pleasant either. So unless you have side effects you can't tolerate, trying a medication may be preferable.