Urinary Incontinence – That Sudden urge to go
Many of us may have faced this problem – Incontinence…. may be during workouts at the gym, while jogging, laughing hard, sneezing, or out of fear…. The slightest of abdominal pressure and rise in our fear that we won’t be dry anymore…. Though a little funny for many..but a very embarrassing problem…which needs to be talked about.
What is Incontinence?
It is the loss of bladder control or over-reactive bladder that makes you pee frequently and/or unintentionally with slightest of abdominal pressure. The loss of bladder control is not a disease but it can be a symptom for many other problems. It can affect anyone and at any age. Bed-wetting is an apt example. Women, however, are three times more likely than men to be incontinent, due in large part to the physical stress of childbearing and a decrease in estrogen after menopause.
What happens in urinary incontinence?
Urine passes from the kidneys through tubes called ureters to the bladder, where it is stored. From the bladder, urine passes out of the body through urethra. The pelvic floor muscles support the bladder. These muscles wrap around the urethra also to help keep it closed until you need to pass urine. Once the bladder is full, a signal is sent to the brain that you need to pass urine. When you are ready, the brain tells the pelvic floor muscles to relax and thus open the urethra. The muscles around the bladder contract and push the urine out. A problem in any part of this process can result in urinary incontinence.
What are the types of Incontinence?
More Common:
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Stress incontinence
During physical activity that creates pressure on the abdomen (eg. Sneezing, coughing, laughing)
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Urge incontinence
Urgent need to pass urine and involuntary contraction of the bladder (eg. Bed-wetting)
Less Common:
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Mixed incontinence
Both stress and urge incontinence
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Overflow incontinence
Constant dribble of urine as the bladder never empties out completely
-
Total incontinence
When the bladder cannot store any urine at all
What are the causes of Incontinence?
The causes of urinary incontinence depend on the type and its condition. Different types of incontinence have different reasons and causes associated with it.
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Stress incontinence
Due to the damage or weakening of the muscles that prevent urination
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Urge incontinence
Result of the over activity of the muscles which control the bladder
-
Overflow incontinence
Caused by a blockage or obstruction of the bladder
-
Total incontinence
Inability of the bladder to store urine at all
There are certain other factors also which can increase the chance of urinary incontinence or cause temporary incontinence. Pregnancy and vaginal birth, family history of incontinence, obesity, menopause, many other diseases and increasing age are some of the other factors.
What are the treatments for incontinence?
This problem can be treated by medication, surgery, changing life style and exercising. It all depends on the type and severity of the problem. Your General Physician will be able to help and guide you diagnose and treat the problem. A specialist may also be referred. Surgical process, in case of women may interfere with their pregnancy and childbirth.
Surgical treatments
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Sling procedures
Inserting a sling around the neck of the bladder to support it
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Urethral Bulking agents
Substances are injected in the walls of urethra which makes it thick and helps it stay closed with more force
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Colposuspension –
Incision is made in the lower abdomen to lift up the neck of the urethra. The stitches through the walls of the neck of the bladder, hold it in place
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Botulinum toxin A injections
Injected into the body to treat urge or over-active incontinence
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Nerve stimulation
The nerves carrying the message to the brain is stimulated
Non-surgical treatments
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Incontinence products
Absorbent products like pads, urine collection bottles, catheter
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Lifestyle changes
Reducing caffeine intake, losing weight in case of obese people, drinking adequate amount of water…neither too less not too much
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Pelvic floor muscle training
Pelvic floor muscles play major role in urination. These muscles have to be made strong and efficient
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Bladder training
learning techniques to increase the length of time between feeling the need to urinate and passing urine
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Medication
Medication is prescribed when the other non-surgical methods fail to give results
How to prevent incontinence?
It isn’t always possible to prevent urinary incontinence, but following a good health regime and life style can help you reduce the chances of susceptibility to this problem. Reducing caffeine and alcohol consumption tops the list. In case of obese, losing weight is foremost important to prevent incontinency. Being active and following regular workout routines is very essential to remain healthy. Exercises of the pelvic muscles also help to prevent this problem.
Whatever be the problem, the bottom line always is – FOLLOW A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE. It helps not only prevent problems but also can magically treat ailments.
Stay fit. Stay healthy.
Do you also suffer from Urinary Incontinence – That Sudden urge to go?
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