What is incontinence?
Incontinence refers to the involuntary loss of bladder or bowel control, making it difficult to regulate the timing and frequency of urination. Many people mistakenly confuse urinary incontinence with a complete loss of bladder control. However, urinary incontinence occurs when someone cannot sense that their bladder is full, not when they lose bladder control entirely.
This common misconception adds to the stigma and embarrassment experienced by those struggling with incontinence. Understanding the difference is crucial for managing the condition effectively.
What Is Urinary Incontinence?
Urinary incontinence is often described as bladder control issues, affecting an estimated 30 million people in the United States alone. If you experience urinary incontinence, you know it’s not something that can easily be hidden or ignored. Many people feel reluctant to discuss it, even with a doctor. Yet, severe urinary incontinence, especially when it prevents you from getting out of bed at night to use the bathroom, can significantly impact your quality of life.
Certain medications can worsen urinary incontinence, but steps can be taken to limit these effects and improve bladder control.
Causes of Urinary Incontinence
The first step in treating urinary incontinence is identifying the underlying cause. Common causes include:
1. Overactive Bladder
An overactive bladder is a frequent cause of both urge incontinence (the sudden urge to urinate) and overflow incontinence (when the bladder overflows before reaching the bathroom). Overactive bladder is sometimes misdiagnosed as conditions like overactive bowel or thyroid issues. If your doctor suspects an overactive bladder, they may prescribe medication to help manage it.
2. Cancer Treatments
Cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation, can weaken the bladder muscles, leading to long-term incontinence issues.
3. Stress Incontinence
Stress incontinence occurs when urine leaks suddenly due to physical strain, such as coughing, sneezing, or laughing. It is commonly associated with pregnancy, childbirth, or weight gain, which can weaken the pelvic floor muscles supporting the bladder.
4. Overflow Incontinence
Overflow incontinence happens when the bladder pushes urine into the urethra before you can reach the bathroom. This is often caused by ageing, dementia, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, or other medical conditions.
5. Frequency and Urge Incontinence
Urge incontinence involves the frequent and uncontrollable need to urinate. It can be caused by conditions like bladder stones, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or bladder tumours. Additionally, neurological disorders like multiple sclerosis (MS) can affect the nerves controlling urine flow, leading to urge incontinence.
Symptoms of Urinary Incontinence
Symptoms of urinary incontinence can vary depending on the cause. Some individuals may experience only one symptom, while others may have multiple. Common symptoms include:
- A sudden, uncontrollable need to urinate
- Frequent urination
- Urine leakage during physical activity or pressure on the abdomen
- Difficulty emptying the bladder fully
Treatment Options for Urinary Incontinence
1. Pelvic Floor Exercises
Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles can improve bladder control. A physical therapist specialising in pelvic floor disorders can guide you through exercises that target muscle weakness. However, these exercises may not be enough for individuals with severe symptoms.
2. Medications
Medications like anticholinergics and alpha-receptor blockers can help relax the bladder muscles and prevent involuntary contractions. For those with overactive bladder, drugs like mirabegron may help by promoting better bladder control through specific nerve channels.
3. Surgery and Other Treatments
In severe cases, surgical interventions may be necessary. Consult your doctor if medications and exercises don’t improve your symptoms, as they may refer you to a urologist for further evaluation and specialised treatment.
Final Thoughts on Urinary Incontinence
If you’re experiencing urinary incontinence, it’s important to see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. Whether caused by an overactive bladder, stress, or other medical conditions, several treatments can help improve bladder control and reduce symptoms. Don’t let embarrassment stop you from seeking the care you need—regaining control over your bladder can significantly enhance your quality of life.
Feel free to explore our full range of incontinence solutions here!
Bladder and bowel incontinence may be caused by conditions which can be treated medically. Please consult your physician for medical advice and guidance.
