Urinary incontinence is more common in women than people think. Approximately 15 percent of women will have to deal with the involuntary loss of urine in their lifetime.
While this problem might not seem like a big deal, it's a condition that shouldn't be ignored. Urinary incontinence can be a sign of underlying medical problems, and interfere with sleep and daily life.
Dr. Diana Bitner, a nationally recognized menopause specialist from Spectrum Health, came to talk about how women can learn to deal with their urinary incontinence for Bladder Health Month.
Don't worry, many times the treatment or adjustment is minor and the cause can easily be identified by their doctor.
There are many different kinds of incontinence. One of them is stress incontinence, which is the loss of urine with increased abdominal pressure. The pressure can come from acts like sneezing, laughing, or exercising.
Urge incontinence is another type where the urge to go to the bathroom is sudden and strong, leaving no time to go to the toilet. However this type of incontinence is not very common.
There's also overflow incontinence, which is when there is a constant dribbling of urine because the bladder is never completely empty, and the function icon is when there's a mental or physical barrier preventing a person to get to the toilet.
Urinary incontinence can be caused by bladder infection, chronic constipation, certain medications, too much caffeine, and even acidic or spicy foods.
Medications for urge incontinence can help with the leaking, and intravagina support with a tampon or Impressa can help women get through daily activities.
Bottom line, if you experience any type of urinary incontinence or problems with your bladder, don't be embarrassed. Schedule an appointment with your doctor so you can find the root of the problem, and find a solution.
Dr. Bitner's office is located at 3800 Lake Michigan Drive Northwest, Suite A. To schedule an appointment with her, call (616) 267-8225.
All information was provided by Dr. Diana Bitner and her blog. Read more.
