Incontinence is the inability to check the release of urine or stools, which can lead to an unwanted loss. This condition can affect people of all ages, although it occurs more often in the elderly. There are different types of incontinence, including stress incontinence, urge incontinence, functional incontinence and overflow incontinence, each with its own specific causes and treatment methods.
The impact of incontinence on daily life can be drastic, both physically and emotionally. People with incontinence can avoid social activities and suffer from shame and a reduced self -image. Despite the possible consequences, incontinence is a treatable condition and there are various options available to control the symptoms.
Treatments range from conservative strategies, such as pelvic floor exercises and bladder training, to medical interventions, including medication, aids or surgery. The most important thing is that individuals show signs of incontinence, gather medical advice for a correct diagnosis and treatment plan. Breaking the stigma and making the condition negotiable are crucial steps in improving the quality of life for those affected by it.
Definition and species of incontinence
Incontinence refers to the inability to voluntarily check urine or stools, which can lead to an undesirable loss. This problem can come from various causes, ranging from temporary disorders to more permanent medical conditions.
There are different types of incontinence:
-
Urinary incontinence: This concerns the unwanted loss of urine.
- Stress incontinence: loss of urine during physical activities such as coughing, sneezing, or sports.
- Urge incontinence: a sudden, intense urge to urinate followed by immediately loss of urine.
- Overflow incontinence: Frequent or constant drops of urine as a result of a full bladder.
- Functional incontinence: loss of urine due to physical or communicative limitations.
- Mixed incontinence: a combination of several types of urinary incontinence.
-
Faecal incontinence: This is the inability to control stools, which leads to an unwanted loss of faeces.
Incontinence can be tackled decisively with the help of various treatments, such as pelvic floor exercises, medication, medical devices, or surgery, depending on the underlying cause and the type of incontinence. It is essential that people with incontinence seek medical help to obtain an adequate diagnosis and treatment.
Causes of incontinence
Incontinence has several causes ranging from physical problems to lifestyle influences. Understanding these causes is essential for the right treatment.
Physical causes
Physical factors that can cause incontinence are diverse. They can vary from problems with the bladder itself, such as an overactive bladder, to external pressure due to, for example, pregnancy or overweight. Neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis or back injury can also influence control over the bladder. Here are some examples:
- Muscle weakness: Reduced power of the pelvic floor muscles can lead to incontinence.
- Prostate problems in men: Increasing or operations can influence the ability to stop urine.
- Nerve damage: Disorders such as diabetes can cause nerve damage that results in incontinence.
Psychological
Psychological disorders also play a role in incontinence. Stress or anxiety can lead to an urge incontinence, in which one feels a sudden, strong need to urinate.
- Stress and fear: These can lead to changes in the bladder function.
- Depression: Sometimes has an influence on physical functions, including the urinary tract.
Lifestyle and environmental factors
Life habits and environmental elements contribute to incontinence. Changes in diet or liquid intake can have influence, just like physical activity and general health.
- Consumption of diuretics: Such as caffeine and alcohol, which stimulate the kidneys and increase urine production.
- Smoking: Can cause coughing that promotes stress incontinence.
- Physical inactivity: Contributes to the weakening of pelvic floor muscles.
Symptoms and diagnosis
Recognizing symptoms and undergoing the correct diagnostic procedures are essential for making a diagnosis of incontinence.
Recognizing symptoms
The symptoms of incontinence can vary, but some common signals include:
- Loss of urine: This can occur unexpectedly during activities such as sneezing, coughing, exercising or laughing, but also the urge to urinate suddenly and urgently.
- Frequent urination: Have to get up more than eight times a day or at night to urinate.
- Drip: Loss small amounts of urine immediately after the toilet visit.
Diagnostic procedures
To diagnose incontinence, a number of research methods can be expected, such as:
| Procedure | Description |
|---|---|
| Urine examination | A laboratory test to identify infections, traces of blood or other abnormalities in the urine. |
| Bladder diary | Patients are asked to keep up with their pee habits for a few days or weeks. |
| Urodynamic examination | Measure the pressure in the bladder and the current of urine to see how well the bladder and the sphincter work. |
| Cystoscopy | A viewing examination with which the inside of the bladder is viewed via a camera for any abnormalities. |
Treatment methods
Incontinence can be treated in various ways, depending on the underlying cause and the severity of the symptoms. Conservative treatment methods, drug therapies and surgical interventions are available.
Conservative treatments
Conservative treatments focus primarily on lifestyle changes and exercises. These can include:
- Bladder training: Patients learn to empty their bladder at fixed times.
- Pelvic floor exercises: Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles to improve bladder control.
Drug treatments
Medication can be prescribed to control the symptoms of incontinence. Some options are:
- Anticholinergics: reduce bladder contractions.
- Mirabegron: relaxes the bladder muscle and increases the bladder capacity.
Surgical interventions
Surgery can be considered in severe cases. Possible interventions are:
- Sling procedures: placement of a 'sling' to support the urethra or bladder neck.
- Artificial sphincters: implantation of a device that closes the urethra.
The choice for a specific treatment method depends on individual circumstances and must be taken in consultation with a healthcare provider.
Management and self -care
Incontinence can have an impact on daily life, but with the right management strategies and self -care measures, individuals can improve their situation and maintain comfort.
Daily habits:
- Liquid intake: Limit caffeinated beverages and alcohol. Drink enough water spread throughout the day.
- Diet: Eat fiber -rich foods to prevent constipation, which can cause bladderpressure.
- Toilet routine: Develop a regular schedule to go to the toilet, for example every 2-4 hours.
Physical exercises:
- Pelvic floor exercises: Strengthen the muscles by regular exercises such as cones.
- Physiotherapy: Consider consulting a specialized physiotherapist for personal advice.
Tools and products:
| Product | Description |
|---|---|
| Incontinence | Absorbent material for light loss. |
| Absorbent pants | For more certainty in the event of a greater loss. |
| Mattress protectors | Protect bedding against leaks. |
Medication:
- Medications can be prescribed to control the symptoms. Consulting a doctor is essential.
Mental health:
- Supporting a psychologist can help in dealing with emotional stress associated with incontinence. Discuss feelings and worries.
Patients must contact a health professional for a personalized treatment plan.
Impact and complications
Incontinence can lead to various physical complications and has a significant psychosocial impact on the individual.
Physical complications
Incontinence can cause skin problems, such as irritation, infections or bedsores, especially if the skin is exposed to urine or stool for a long time. The urinary tract infections can also promote the constant presence of moisture in the genital region. Urine retention, where people are unable to completely empty the bladder, can also be a complication.
Psychosocial impact
The psychosocial impact of incontinence is significant. People often experience shame, fear and depression due to their condition. This can lead to social isolation because individuals will avoid activities and social occasions. In the workplace, incontinence can influence performance through reduced self -confidence and concentration.
Prevention and awareness
Preventive measures and awareness are essential in tackling incontinence. First of all, one can Lifestyle adjustments Consider, such as:
- Drink enough water: This helps to make the urine less concentrated and annoying.
- Sensible food choices: Avoiding food and beverages that irritate the bladder, such as caffeine, alcohol and spicy dishes.
- Regular exercise: Pelvic floor exercises in particular can strengthen the muscles that support the bladder control.
In addition, it is important to medical To be in for:
- Weight control: Overweight can give extra pressure on the bladder.
- Bladder training: Under the guidance of a healthcare professional, one can learn to stop the lake longer and thus increase the bladder capacity.
Knowledge gain is also a crucial element in awareness. Information in the form of:
- Information brochures
- Workshop
- Online Platforms
Can help individuals recognize the signals of incontinence and encourage them to seek medical help faster.
Use of Protective products Such as incontinence underwear, in some cases the daily activities can influence less and improve the quality of life, while a solution is being sought permanently.
Professional healthcare providers can offer tailor -made plans that take into account personal circumstances, which can significantly increase the effectiveness of prevention and awareness.
