Bladder

Definition

The bladder is a hollow muscular organ that stores urine before it is excreted from the body. It plays a crucial role in the urinary system, allowing for the temporary retention of urine until the body signals that it is time to release it. The bladder's ability to stretch and contract is vital for proper micturition, making it a key player in urinary tract function and disorders.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The bladder can hold approximately 400 to 600 milliliters of urine before the urge to urinate is felt.
2. Nerve signals from the brain and spinal cord control the contraction of the detrusor muscle, facilitating micturition.
3. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can affect the bladder, leading to inflammation and discomfort.
4. Bladder capacity can be influenced by age, hydration levels, and certain medical conditions.
5. Disorders such as overactive bladder and incontinence are common issues that affect bladder function.

Review Questions

• How does the structure of the bladder support its function in urine storage and elimination?
  • The bladder's structure, characterized by its elastic muscular walls, allows it to expand as it fills with urine and contract during micturition. The detrusor muscle, which forms the bladder wall, plays a critical role by relaxing to accommodate increasing volume and contracting to expel urine when necessary. This unique structure enables the bladder to efficiently store urine and facilitate timely elimination from the body.
• What are some common disorders associated with bladder function, and how do they affect micturition?
  • Common disorders like urinary tract infections (UTIs) can lead to inflammation of the bladder, resulting in painful urination and increased urgency. Overactive bladder syndrome causes frequent and sudden urges to urinate, while incontinence leads to involuntary leakage of urine. These conditions disrupt normal micturition patterns, affecting quality of life and requiring various treatment strategies to manage symptoms effectively.
• Evaluate the physiological mechanisms involved in micturition and how disruptions can lead to urinary disorders.
  • Micturition involves a complex interplay between the nervous system and muscular contractions of the bladder. When the bladder fills, stretch receptors signal the brain, initiating the urge to urinate. If this signaling is disrupted due to neurological conditions or damage to the detrusor muscle, individuals may experience urinary retention or incontinence. Understanding these physiological mechanisms is essential for diagnosing and treating urinary disorders effectively.

Related terms

micturition: The process of urination, where the bladder contracts to expel urine through the urethra.

urethra: The tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body.

detrusor muscle: The smooth muscle layer of the bladder wall responsible for its contraction during urination.