Talking With Your Doctor About Incontinence

July 20, 2015

Dealing with incontinence is an option. Many men and women suffering from incontinence feel there’s nothing that can be done and often think they just need to live with the condition. That’s rarely the case. The first step is to speak to a doctor about the condition, learn why it is happening, and then learn what can be done about it. Most importantly, realize that you can improve your quality of life and enjoy all of the activities you used to.

Why Is This Happening?

Incontinence is the leaking of urine, also known as a bladder control problem. This accidental leaking of urine can happen to anyone, though it happens more readily in those who are older. It can be brought on by:

• Weakened bladder muscles
• An overactive bladder
• Nerve damage from multiple sclerosis or Parkinson’s disease
• Blockages due to an enlarged prostate
• Difficulty getting to the bathroom in time due to physical mobility issues, such as arthritis

No matter why it is happening, it’s important to speak to your doctor about the condition. Often times, treatment is available. Often, those suffering from this condition become depressed and withdraw from social interactions because they feel they are embarrassed.

It’s Embarrassing: How to Speak to Your Doctor About Incontinence

According to WebMD, twice as many women develop incontinence than men. Many of them develop the condition at a younger age. And, it can happen during any physical activity, including sex. How can you bring this up to a doctor when it seems so embarrassing?

First, realize that your doctor sees and helps patients with incontinence on a regular basis. For your doctor, it is no different than any other type of ailment. Discuss the condition in medical terms. Tell your doctor you believe you have incontinence or bladder leakage. It’s easier to say this than to say you “sometimes pee” accidentally. Most importantly, choose a doctor you feel comfortable talking to. When discussing the condition with your doctor, provide as much information as possible:

• When does it happen most often?
• Keep track of your diet. For some people, diary can be a cause.
• Do you have the urge to urinate before it happens or does it happen at random times?

Your doctor may recommend seeing a urologist or having blood and urine tests done to determine the underlying cause.

Are There Really Treatment Options, Though?

Many options exist for treating incontinence. That’s important for you to know because it should serve as reason to discuss this touchy subject with your doctor. Treatment options depend on the type and cause of your condition, according to Mayo Clinic. The following are some of the options available:

• Bladder training, a process of delaying urination in order to build strength and allow you to not go more than once every two to four hours
• Double voiding, which can help you to learn how to empty your bladder fully
• Fluid and diet management
• Pelvic floor muscle training to strengthen the muscles in your bladder to reduce leaks
• Medications
• Electrical stimulation to strengthen muscles

Ultimately, there are options for many people. You deserve to live a life that’s active and not worrisome. Talk to your doctor and take the first step towards seeing improvement. As always, remember that Wearever is here to help empower and fortify men and women of any age who may happen to have incontinence.