Urinary incontinence is often referred to as involuntary urination. It’s defined as any uncontrolled leakage of urine. Experienced by many, it’s one that’s particularly distressing and can often have a significant impact and effect on the quality of a person’s life. Not being able to control the urge to urinate can often result in individuals not wanting to venture outside of their home as a result.
This type of incontinence is common mostly in older women and therefore an essential issue to address within the geriatric area of health care.
Common signs and symptoms of incontinence
There are common signs and symptoms to be aware of when it comes to incontinence. Some are more obvious than others, but knowing what’s obvious and what might be a more subtle sign is helpful so that you can get the help you need, faster.
A sudden urge to go to the toilet that appears out of nowhere
Often enough, when it comes to incontinence, you may suddenly find yourself having the urge to pee or go to the bathroom. This urge often comes out of nowhere and can therefore be incredibly distressing, especially if you’re not near a toilet.
Wetting the bed
Wetting the bed is something that’s usually associated with children who are navigating their own control with urination, but it’s common with older individuals, too, with weaker bladders.
If you find yourself wetting the bed, whether you’re awake and aware or you sleep through it, this will often be a sign of incontinence.
Pain or stinging when urinating
Pain or stinging when urinating is definitely an indication of something that needs addressing quickly. Peeing shouldn’t be painful or cause stinging sensations, usually, so it’s something that you will definitely want to address with your doctor.
UTIs are also common with incontinence, so if you’re getting these regularly, then this is something to consider as a sign.
Difficulties with urinating
Difficulty urinating is typical for those with incontinence problems, but it might also be due to something else. Therefore, it’s good to get any other issues ruled out, even if incontinence might not be the first thing you put it down to.
How to treat incontinence
There are many ways you can treat incontinence, and this will depend on the severity and the type of incontinence an individual has. Here are a few ways in which you can look to treat yours or your loved one's incontinence problems.
Do pelvic floor exercises
Pelvic floor exercises are great for strengthening the area of your body that’s integral to helping you hold the pee until you get yourself to a nearby toilet. That’s why it’s beneficial to do as much pelvic floor exercise as possible, especially after having children or as you get older.
Monitor your fluid intake
Fluid intake is often a contributing factor to how well you can hold your bladder. The more fluid you have, the more likely you are to need the toilet. Monitoring your fluid intake to reduce your frequency of going to the toilet is helpful to avoid it impacting your day-to-day activities.
Make dietary adjustments
Dietary adjustments are a useful way to help with your bladder control, with some foods being healthier for your body than others. Consumption of certain drinks like caffeine and alcohol can cause you to urinate more often, which is why it’s beneficial to reduce the intake of both where you can.
Try different medications
Medications are available for those who want to try out medication for the purpose of incontinence. From anticholinergics that relax bladder muscles and reduce overactivity of the bladder, to topical estrogen that helps restore bladder control - there’s a lot of choice.
Look at what mobility aids are available
You’ve also got the option of mobility aids to help with incontinence. There are a variety of options to choose from, whether that be toilet frames and rails to support yourself when navigating the toilet, to urinals and bed pans for quicker relief.
There are also washable seat pads, toileting slings and pads/pull-up pants that can help manage and maintain dignity when urinating.
Try mobility aids from Mobility Genie
Mobility Genie believes in empowering individuals to live their lives to the fullest, despite their age or physical challenges. If you’re looking for assistance with incontinence, then we can help with all of your mobility aid needs. Get in touch today to see how we can help make incontinence something that’s more manageable and doesn’t impact your quality of life.