Incontinence

What is Incontinence?

Urinary incontinence refers to the unintentional release of urine when an individual coughs, sneezes, laughs, or when engaging in physical activities. The sudden need to urinate can also occur, and in some instances, the person cannot get to a restroom in time. Persistent urinary incontinence can present in two forms, stress incontinence and urge incontinence. While it is not typically an indication of a serious illness, it can disrupt an individual’s everyday routine and cause them to feel less confident when participating in social activities.While anyone can suffer from incontinence although, it is more common in elderly patients.

What Forms of Urinary Incontinence Are There?

There are two forms of incontinence:

• Stress incontinence is the most common form. It occurs when a person laughs, sneezes, coughs or does another activity which puts pressure on the person’s bladder.
• Urge Incontinence applies to when an individual feels a strong urge to urinate even when the bladder contains a small amount of urine. Overactive bladder is a form of urge incontinence.

Bladder control concerns stem from a weakening in the muscles of the lower urinary tract or from trauma to the urinary tract or nerves which allow urination. Urge incontinence is the result of an overactive bladder muscle that pushes urine out more often than normal and can be related to stroke, stress, Parkinson’s disease, or aggravation of the bladder. Stress incontinence can also be the result of childbirth, weight gain, or other conditions that stretch the pelvic floor muscles.

What are the Symptoms of Urinary Incontinence?

Symptoms of urinary incontinence typically include:

• Accidental release of urine
• Leaking when coughing, laughing, exercising, sneezing, etc.
• The sudden urge to urinate, sometimes causing larger leaks, or urge which seems unfounded since there was not much urine
• Symptoms of both can signify mixed incontinence

If you are experiencing symptoms, contact the doctor for help. Numerous treatments are available for anyone suffering from these conditions; it can provide the help and relief needed to perform everyday activities, without any worry.