"I now live a normal life and I am so happy!"

I am 67 years old and have suffered with an over-active bladder for more than 2 years. I had to constantly wear pads and often had to change my underwear two or three times a day if I couldn't get to a toilet quickly enough. I had ongoing bladder infections and led a miserable, reclusive life.

After a particularly bad infection, my GP told me about the Continence Advisory Service at the Eddercliffe Centre in Cleckheaton. I plucked up the courage and rang for an appointment - it was very hard to keep that appointment - I was very ashamed of my condition, didn't want to talk about it, fearful of what people would think. How very wrong I was!

The staff at the Eddercliffe were wonderful, caring people who made me feel so relaxed and listened so sympathetically.

After many tests, including a bladder scan, I found out that caffeine and alcohol were the main culprits of my irritating my bladder, plus I was not drinking enough liquids during the day to keep my bladder functioning correctly.

I have switched to decaf drinks and reduced my glasses of red wine (not easy! ) and now I have a NEW LIFE! !

I also take a small tablet at bedtime to keep my bladder calm and have no more disturbed nights getting up to the toilet!

I was also introduced to pelvic floor exercises - so easy to do - and they have really helped.

I now live a normal life and I am so happy!

If you have a bladder problem, I would encourage you to contact the CAS at the Eddercliffe Centre - the Telephone number is 0114 84 415 515 and you'll meet Julia, a wonderful nurse/advisor/confidant who is so easy to talk to it's like having a new best friend! !