How do you fix urinary incontinence?

Even though urinary incontinence (UI) is not usually a serious medical condition, the loss of bladder control can be an embarrassing problem. Here is what you need to know about UI and what can be done to correct it.

What is UI?

UI is the loss of bladder control, which ranges from occasionally leaking urine when you sneeze or cough to having a strong, sudden urge to urinate that you can't make it to a toilet in time.

UI is most common in women during and after pregnancy, but can affect people of all ages, especially as they get older.

There are five different types of UI. Stress incontinence is one that we most often think of, as it happens when urine leaks when you cough, sneeze, laugh or exercise. Urge incontinence is when you have a sudden, intense urge to urinate and can't make it to the bathroom in time.

Overflow incontinence happens when you have a bladder that doesn't completely empty and you experience frequent dribbling. Functional incontinence is when you have a physical or mental impairment that prevents you from making it to the bathroom in time to urinate. Mixed incontinence is when you experience more than one type of UI, usually stress and urge incontinence.

What are the causes?

Usually, UI is caused by weak muscles in the urinary tract or urinary tract infection. Some medications can cause weak bladder muscles, leading to UI. A thorough examination by your doctor can help determine the cause of your UI.

Can you prevent UI?

While UI isn't always preventable, there are things you can do to minimize your risk. It's important to maintain a healthy weight and practice pelvic floor exercises. Avoid smoking or ask your doctor for help in quitting. Avoid bladder irritants in your food and drinks, including caffeine, alcohol and acidic foods. Eating fiber can help prevent constipation, which is a cause of UI.

What are my treatment options?

Depending on the cause of your UI, medication or surgical intervention may be necessary.

If you have UI, you don't have to live with it. To schedule an appointment to discuss your concerns, please call us at (817) 346-5336.