More than three-quarters of people with overactive bladders (OAB) say that their condition makes it difficult to perform daily activities, yet only 43 per cent would consider consulting a doctor.
And men are much more likely to express concern than women, according to the results of a large-scale study published in the latest issue of BJU International.
11,521 people aged 40-64 took part in the survey which was conducted in six European countries - France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Sweden and the UK.
At least 300 people with OAB - which affects an estimated one in six Europeans over 40 - were identified and interviewed in each country.
Symptoms of OAB include the need to empty the bladder urgently and more frequently during the day and night. Some people may also have the added problem of incontinence.
"32 per cent of the people interviewed said that their condition made them depressed and 28 per cent reported feeling stressed" says lead researcher Debra E Irwin from the School of Public Health at the University of North Carolina.
"Yet 48 per cent of women and 40 per cent of men felt that it was not a valid medical condition."
Other key findings included: