Customer question:
Is incontinence the same as urine leakage? Anonymous customer's question
Pharmacist's answer:
Incontinence and urine leakage are related but not precisely the same concept. Incontinence is a broader term that refers to the inability to control the excretion of bodily fluids, most commonly urine or stool. Urinary incontinence is a specific type of incontinence that refers to the inability to hold urine.
Urine leakage is a symptom of urinary incontinence that occurs when an individual loses bladder control, leading to uncontrolled leakage of urine. This can include small amounts that escape during physical activity, laughing or sneezing, or more significant releases that require frequent clothing changes or protective equipment.
Urinary incontinence is divided into several types, including:
- stress incontinence,
- urgent incontinence,
- overflow incontinence and
- functional incontinence.
Stress incontinence occurs when pressure on the bladder, such as coughing, laughing, or lifting heavy objects, causes urine to leak. Urge incontinence occurs when an individual suddenly feels a strong, uncontrollable urge to urinate, leading to uncontrollable leakage of urine. Overflow incontinence occurs when the bladder does not empty, leading to constant or occasional dripping of urine. On the other hand, functional incontinence occurs when physical or mental obstacles prevent timely use of the toilet. Incontinence is more common in older people, but it can affect people of all ages.
What causes urinary incontinence?
Among the most common causes are age-related changes that weaken the bladder and urinary system muscles. Pregnancy and childbirth can cause damage to the pelvic floor muscles, leading to incontinence. Obesity increases pressure on the bladder, which can also contribute to urine leakage. Hormonal changes during menopause affect tissue elasticity, which can affect incontinence. Chronic diseases such as diabetes, Parkinson's disease, and multiple sclerosis can affect the nerves that control the bladder. Urinary tract infections can irritate the bladder and cause temporary incontinence.
Some medications, such as diuretics, sedatives, and muscle relaxants, can affect the bladder and cause incontinence. Pelvic surgery, including hysterectomy, can affect muscle and nerve function and cause incontinence. Reduced mobility or other physical limitations can make it difficult to use the toilet in a timely manner, leading to urine leakage. Psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, or depression can also affect bladder control.
Can we get rid of and cure urinary incontinence?
Depending on the cause and severity of urinary incontinence, it can be managed and, in many cases, cured. Treatment approaches include behavioral changes, medication, physical therapy, and surgery.
Behavioral changes are often the first step in managing incontinence. These include pelvic floor muscle training (Kegel exercises), fluid intake control, urinary training (scheduled urination), and dietary changes. These methods can improve muscle tone and bladder control.
Drug treatment can be effective for some types of incontinence. Medication can reduce bladder contractions, increase bladder capacity, or strengthen the sphincter muscles. These drugs are often prescribed for emergency incontinence.
Physiotherapy, especially for the pelvic floor muscles, can significantly improve incontinence symptoms. Physical therapists use various techniques, including biofeedback and electrical stimulation, to help patients strengthen muscles and improve bladder control.
Surgeries are usually a last resort used in patients where other methods have failed. Surgery may include procedures such as bladder neck suspension, insertion of urethral support straps, or an artificial bladder sphincter.
In addition to these approaches, other methods, such as the use of incontinence aids (such as pads and diapers), electrostimulation therapy, and, in some cases, lifestyle changes, can help reduce incontinence symptoms.
Which over-the-counter medications can help with urinary incontinence?
Some over-the-counter medications and supplements can help with urinary incontinence. Here are some examples:
- Cranberry products: Cranberry juice or capsules can help with overall urinary tract health.
- Pumpkin seeds: Products containing pumpkin seeds or oil are available as dietary supplements.
- Soy extracts: osophy sauces are available as extras.
- Vitamin D: available in tablet or capsule form.
- Magnesium is available as a dietary supplement in tablets or powders.
Urinary incontinence - what exercises can help?
Exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles are often beneficial for urinary incontinence. Here are some exercises that can help:
- Kegel exercises: strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor in such a way as to try to stop the flow of urine during urination. Once you've strengthened them, you can also do exercises like this: squeeze your pelvic floor muscles and hold for 5 seconds, then release for 5 seconds. Repeat 10-15 times. Gradually increase the time of compression and release up to 10 seconds. Repeat these exercises three times a day.
- Ball exercises: sit on the ball with your back straight and your feet firmly on the floor. Squeeze your pelvic floor muscles and hold for 5-10 seconds, then release. Repeat 10-15 times.
- Bridge: Lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet on the floor. Raise your hips toward the ceiling while simultaneously squeezing your pelvic floor muscles. Hold for 5 seconds, then release. Repeat 10-15 times.
- Squeeze and Lift: Squeeze your pelvic floor muscles and hold them as if you were lifting them. Hold for 5-10 seconds, then release. Repeat 10-15 times.
- Pilates and yoga: it is recommended that you do the exercises regularly, as it may take several weeks to months before you notice an improvement. If you are unsure how to perform the exercises correctly, you can seek advice from a physiotherapist specializing in pelvic floor problems.
Interesting reading: What is incontinence?
