Understanding and Treating Urinary Incontinence

Urinary incontinence is a condition which affects millions of people each year. Thanks to embarrassment and a negative connotation, very few people report this problem to their physicians. It can negatively impact day to life for sufferers and is often a sign of a deeper medical issue. Let this article explain the definition of urinary incontinence, what it might be a symptom of and how to treat the ailment.

Defining Urinary Incontinence

Any loss of bladder control, whether severe or only occasional, is considered to be urinary incontinence. For some sufferers, it means that even daily activities cannot be performed without fear and dread, with many people spending the majority of their days indoors because of it. For others it is only a problem when the body has involuntary sharp movements like a cough or a sneeze. For many people, incontinence increases with age, progressing what was once an occasional issue to a daily occurrence.

Causes and Risk Factors

As mentioned previously, age is often a factor in and of itself. However, there are also many other more significant medical conditions that can lead to urinary problems. Some causes are temporary, and result from over-consumption of particular items. For example, increased caffeine or alcohol consumption can lead to incontinence as they are both dehydrating diuretics. More serious causes include diabetes, new medications, constipation, a urinary tract infection, prostate or bladder cancer, recent surgery or even one of several neurological disorders. Those who are at greater risk for this ailment include women, those who are obese and frequent or long term smokers.

Treatments and Medications

Many patients who see a physician for this condition want to find an instant remedy that will cure their problems. However, because it is often a sign of an underlying illness it may be a complicated process. Thankfully there are several techniques and medications that can improve the condition. Many patients benefit from scheduled toilet trips, diet management, bladder training, physical therapy, devices like a urethral insert or a pessary or even surgery.

Lifestyle Choices and Home Remedies

Aside from the doctor recommended course of action, patients often have great success when trying home remedies and managing their diet to avoid harmful or irritating substances. Eliminating caffeine and processed foods has a positive impact for some, as does acupuncture. However, nothing should replace the advice of your physician.

Although urinary incontinence is a frustrating and potentially embarrassing ailment, it is important to bring it up with your doctor in order to treat the condition or identify any underlying causes.