Incontinence is the inability to control the passage of urine or faeces. It is a symptom, not a disease and can range in severity. Some people only experience urinary incontinence at specific times such as when they sneeze or laugh.
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All types of incontinence can be caused by differing factors. For instance, stress incontinence can be caused by a variety of factors such as multiple childbirths in women, being overweight, genetic weaknesses, radiation therapy or other chronic conditions.
Urge incontinence or overactive bladder is caused by damage to the bladder’s nerves, nervous system or muscles.
Overflow incontinence is caused by weak bladder muscles, blockage of the urethra, or medical conditions such as tumours.
Functional incontinence is caused by mental confusion associated with dementia or arthritis and it therefore slows the person’s ability to get to the toilet in time.
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It is estimated that up to one in three people in the UK will experience incontinence at some point in their lifetime.
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Some medicines affect the bladder muscles ability to work properly. These medicines are sometimes prescribed for conditions outside the urinary system and can cause unwanted changes in bladder control. Some medicines that can cause unwanted side effects include; diuretics, calcium channel blockers, sedatives, muscle relaxants, narcotics, antihistamines, anticholinergics, antipsychotics and antidepressants.
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Some foods and beverages are thought to potentially affect the bladder. The following are thought to be possible bladder irritants; alcohol, carbonated beverages, milk, coffee, tea, medicines including caffeine, citrus juice, citrus fruits, tomatoes, tomato-based products, spicy food, sugar, honey, chocolate, corn syrup and artificial sweeteners.
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People with bladder control problems are often concerned about odour. You can prevent your urine from having an unpleasant odour by drinking six to eight glasses of water per day.
Vitamin C is an effective urine deodoriser. Speak to your GP or continence advisor about this because it may not be suitable for you to take Vitamin C due to other medical conditions you have or other medicines you are taking. To keep urine acidic and naturally reduce odour, drinking cranberry juice may also be helpful.
The best way to control odour is a mixture of good hygiene and the use of gentle specifically designed cleansers and deodorants. Comprehensive personal hygiene and the use of clean undergarments daily is essential. After voiding or bowel movements, wipe from front to back.
If the skin is dry or reddened, a barrier film such as LBF may be useful.
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Yes, stress incontinence, urge incontinence, overflow incontinence and functional incontinence.
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The first step is to see your GP. Your GP will ask you about your symptoms and take a medical history. Your doctor may ask you the following; how often you empty your bladder, how and when you leak urine and how much urine you leak.
Your doctor will examine you to look for signs of health problems that can cause incontinence. Your doctor will also do a test to figure out how well your bladder works and how much it can hold. Your doctor may ask you to write down when you empty your bladder and how much urine you produce for a day or a week.
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Most people don't want to talk to their doctor about such a personal topic. But keep in mind that urinary incontinence is a common medical problem. Even if you feel shy, it is up to you to take the first step.
It may help to write down when you leak urine. Be sure to note what you were doing at the time, for example, sneezing, coughing, laughing, or sleeping. Take this log with you when you visit your doctor.
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Yes, exercising your pelvic floor muscles regularly can help prevent bladder problems.
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Pelvic floor exercises should be taught to you by a healthcare professional in order that the correct muscles are tightened effectively. You will need to be patient as it may take 3 to 6 weeks before you see results.
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There are many ways to treat incontinence. Your doctor will work with you to find the best treatment for you. Please see the treatment options section of the education section for more detail.
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