Epilepsy and Incontinence

Epilepsy is a neurological condition that can cause seizures, leading to changes in a person’s movement, behaviour, and even loss of consciousness. These seizures occur due to disruptions in the brain's electrical activity, and this disruption can also affect a person's ability to remain continent. This connection between epilepsy and incontinence is an important topic for those managing these symptoms.

How Epilepsy Causes Incontinence

Different types of seizures can cause incontinence in various ways, impacting the muscles involved in bladder control. Here’s a breakdown of how certain types of seizures can lead to incontinence:

Tonic-Clonic Seizures

Tonic-clonic seizures typically occur when the muscles become rigid and tense. During these episodes, the pelvic muscles may also tense up, putting pressure on the bladder. This stress can result in accidental leakage or, in some cases, complete emptying of the bladder.

Atonic Seizures

Atonic seizures involve a sudden loss of muscle tone, which can cause the muscles to relax uncontrollably. This weakness can affect the pelvic muscles, leading to involuntary bladder release.

Absence Seizures

Absence seizures are non-motor seizures where individuals experience brief lapses in awareness. During these episodes, the brain may fail to properly signal the bladder to retain urine, resulting in the total loss of bladder control.

Common Incontinence Symptoms Related to Epilepsy

Those experiencing epilepsy-related incontinence may notice the following symptoms:

• Sudden urge to empty the bladder
• Inability to completely empty the bladder
• Difficulty reaching a toilet in time, leading to accidents

How to Prevent Epilepsy-Related Incontinence

Managing epilepsy-related incontinence involves a combination of medical treatment and lifestyle changes. Here are some tips to help prevent incontinence episodes:

• Take your epilepsy medications as prescribed and on time to reduce the likelihood of seizures.
• Use incontinence products such as adult slips, incontinence pants, or bed pads to manage accidents.
• Ensure that adults get 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night to reduce the risk of seizures caused by sleep deprivation.
• Avoid seizure triggers such as:
  • Alcohol
  • Flashing lights
  • Illicit drugs
  • Skipping meals
  • Foods with high sugar levels

Always speak with your GP or healthcare professional if you experience any symptoms of epilepsy or incontinence. They can offer personalised advice and treatments to help you manage both conditions effectively.

Key Takeaways

• Epilepsy and incontinence can be linked, with seizures often causing involuntary bladder control.
• Tonic-clonic, atonic, and absence seizures can all lead to incontinence in different ways.
• Following a proper treatment plan, using continence products, and managing seizure triggers can help prevent incontinence episodes.

For more guidance on epilepsy management and its effects on bladder control, always consult a healthcare professional.

Bladder and bowel incontinence may be caused by conditions which can be treated medically. Please consult your physician for medical advice and guidance.