What is a common diagnostic tool used to assess bladder function?

A voiding diary is a common diagnostic tool used to assess bladder function because it provides detailed information about a patient's urinary habits over a specific time period. Patients record the frequency of urination, the volume of urine produced, any episodes of urgency or incontinence, and fluid intake. This information is invaluable for healthcare providers in identifying patterns of dysfunction, such as frequent urination, nocturia, or overflow incontinence, and can guide further diagnostic testing or treatment.

In contrast, while ultrasound can be useful for visualizing bladder structure or checking for urinary retention, it does not provide the full spectrum of functional information that a voiding diary offers. X-rays and CT scans are primarily used for anatomical imaging and may not assess bladder function directly; therefore, they are less appropriate for evaluating urinary symptoms.