Kelowna Regional Conference: Bladder and Bowel Issues (2022)

Dr. Jennifer Locke presented a webinar discussing bladder dysfunction as a prevalent autonomic disorder in Parkinson's disease, unresponsive to levodopa treatment. She outlined the regulation of the lower urinary tract by the parasympathetic and sympathetic systems and the diagnostic use of urodynamic studies. Treatment options encompassed anticholinergics, beta-3 agonists, and botulinum toxin injections.

Dr. Locke mentioned that combined therapy with agonists and anticholinergics improved urgency incontinence symptoms but might necessitate intermittent catheterization post-procedure. For hesitancy and inability to empty, alpha blockers and 5-alpha reductase inhibitors were commonly prescribed, with transurethral resection of the prostate offering continence restoration and enhanced quality of life in Parkinson's patients.

She stressed the importance of distinguishing between Parkinson's disease and multiple system atrophy (MSA) for appropriate treatment selection and avoidance of potential complications. Regular evaluation and potential renal imaging were recommended for Parkinson's patients with bladder dysfunction.

The webinar also touched on gastrointestinal tract issues in Parkinson's, including oral problems, delayed gastric emptying, and constipation as significant complications.

**Disclaimer: These sessions are designed to provide general education and are not intended for individual advice and/or clinical care. The information conveyed in this recording was accurate at the time of presentation.**