What Is Incontinence?
Incontinence is a sensitive subject that can lead to discomfort, especially when you’re in public and suddenly need to find a restroom quickly. This condition can cause significant anxiety. However, in most cases, incontinence is treatable or manageable, allowing individuals to live their daily lives with greater ease. The first step toward managing incontinence is to learn about your treatment options and seek professional advice. Remember, this issue is far more common than you might think, affecting many people around the world. Many are familiar with the term incontinence, but it’s important to realize that it affects over 5 million people in Australia, including children. Incontinence can range from occasional minor leaks during activities like laughing or sneezing to a complete inability to control the bladder or bowel. Incontinence can be classified into two primary types: urinary incontinence and bowel incontinence, as it affects both bladder and bowel control.
Types of Incontinence
1. Urinary incontinence 2. Bowel incontinence
Urinary Incontinence
Urinary incontinence refers to the loss of bladder control, resulting in the involuntary leakage of urine. The most common types are stress incontinence and urge incontinence, though there are several other variations. Common Types of Urinary Incontinence are:
Stress Incontinence
This is one of the most prevalent types of urinary incontinence, particularly affecting women more than men. It occurs when the muscles around the urethra or pelvic floor become weakened or damaged. The term “stress” here refers to the pressure placed on the bladder from physical activities like laughing, sneezing, or exercising. The severity can vary, from small leaks to more significant issues, where the bladder cannot hold urine at all when it is full.
Urge Incontinence
Often called an overactive bladder, urge incontinence is another common form of urinary incontinence. It involves an intense and sudden urge to urinate, followed by immediate bladder release, which can be very distressing if a restroom is not nearby. The causes aren’t entirely clear, but risk factors include older age, physical conditions like spinal damage, neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis, and urinary tract or bladder infections.
Mixed Incontinence
This condition combines both stress and urge incontinence. Many women experience this form, where both types are present, while men typically face this issue after prostate surgeries.
Overflow Incontinence
This occurs when the bladder doesn’t empty completely, leading to leakage of urine, sometimes without the sensation of needing to go. This condition is particularly common in men with prostate problems.
Functional Incontinence
Even when the urinary system is functioning properly, other factors such as physical disability or illness can result in functional incontinence. This form is often linked to situations where individuals are unable to reach a bathroom due to being bedridden or under the influence of certain medications.
Reflex Incontinence
In normal circumstances, the nerves alert the brain when the bladder fills. However, in reflex incontinence, the bladder muscle contracts and leaks urine without any warning. This condition is often caused by neurological issues like spinal injuries or multiple sclerosis. If you’re dealing with any form of incontinence, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for guidance on treatment options and solutions tailored to your situation.
Faecal Incontinence
Faecal incontinence occurs when an individual unintentionally passes stool (faeces) or experiences leakage without realizing it. While more common among older adults, younger individuals can also face this condition. There are multiple reasons why faecal incontinence may happen. Frequent straining during bowel movements and poor toilet habits are often significant contributors. Certain medications and medical conditions can also trigger faecal incontinence, including diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, bowel disease, and dementia. Additionally, a weak pelvic floor can result in unpredictable bowel movements. Given the variety of factors that contribute to faecal incontinence, it is advisable to consult your doctor or visit the Continence Foundation of Australia website for valuable resources and advice.
Preventing Incontinence
There are various preventative strategies that can help reduce or better manage faecal incontinence. Many of these involve lifestyle changes.
- Pelvic Floor Exercises
Performing daily pelvic floor exercises can make a difference, though it may take up to three months to see results. The Continence Foundation of Australia offers a number of helpful pelvic floor exercise videos. Additionally, several apps can assist with Kegel exercises.
- Quit Smoking
Smoking leads to coughing, which puts stress on the pelvic floor muscles.
- Exercise Routine Changes
Incorporate low-impact exercises like yoga and pilates, as high-impact exercises can increase pelvic pressure.
- Avoid Heavy Lifting
Lifting heavy objects can strain your pelvic floor. Always engage your core and tighten your pelvic floor before lifting.
- Weight Loss
Excess weight, especially around the midsection, can place pressure on the bladder, leading to leakage. Losing weight can help improve this condition.
- Address Constipation
Straining while on the toilet can worsen incontinence. Ensure you never delay emptying your bowels when needed. Increasing fibre intake and regular exercise can aid in relieving constipation.
- Dietary Modifications
Limit caffeine, alcohol, spicy, and acidic foods. Drinking plenty of water can improve symptoms.
- Incontinence Pads
For those experiencing incontinence, using appropriate incontinence pads can help manage the condition. These pads provide discreet protection and reduce the likelihood of accidents in public.
Choosing the Right Incontinence Pad
Selecting the correct incontinence pad can greatly enhance comfort and lifestyle. Here are key considerations when choosing a pad:
- Absorbency
Ensure the pad offers the right level of absorbency for your needs.
- Size
The pad should fit comfortably and securely.
- Style
Consider the style that best suits your lifestyle and needs.
Types of Incontinence Pads
- Guards & Shields
These are designed for light to moderate incontinence, with guards for women and shields for men. They attach to underwear and are ideal for those who can change pads regularly.
- Nappy-Style Protection
These disposable pads resemble standard nappies, offering more complete support for moderate to heavy incontinence.
- Pull-Up Pants
Shaped like regular underwear with absorbent padding, pull-ups are a good option for active individuals or those who need discreet protection.
- Belted All-In-One Pads
These pads are held in place by a belt, making them adjustable and comfortable, and are suitable for those with moderate to heavy incontinence.
- Pad and Pant System
This system involves a disposable pad that stays close to the body, ideal for active people or those with poor dexterity.
- Stretch Pants
Stretch pants help keep a pad in place, and they can be washed and reused, making them an eco-friendly option for moderate to heavy incontinence.
When to Consult Your Doctor
If you’ve tried addressing your incontinence with lifestyle changes and are still facing leakage or feeling distressed, it’s important to speak with your doctor. Don’t feel ashamed or suffer in silence, many people face this issue, and there are numerous support groups and resources to help. Remember, incontinence is common, and more than 5 million Australians experience it each year!