As you age, your body goes through a lot of changes. Along with those changes come a variety of new challenges, including incontinence. Incontinence is the loss of control over your bladder that leads to urine leakage or inability to manage flow. It is a common problem, particularly for older adults, and it can be both embarrassing and frustrating.
Although it is more common in older adults, it can happen at any age. There are several types of incontinence, and the symptoms can vary depending on the type. It is important to be aware of the early signs so that you can seek treatment if necessary or make lifestyle changes to help live a comfortable and hygienic life.
Different Types of Incontinence to Watch For
The most common types of urinary incontinence that appear when you get older include stress, urge, overflow, and functional incontinence. You can also have a combination of more than one.
- Stress – urine leakage that occurs when you cough, laugh, or move
- Urge – intense feeling of needing to urinate or frequent urges
- Overflow – inability to completely empty your bladder leads to continuous leakage
- Functional – impairment that makes it difficult or impossible to get to the bathroom
If you experience any of these early symptoms of age-related incontinence, it may be a good time to talk with your doctor or look for self-care help like adult diapers.
How Disruptive Are the Symptoms?
Many people experience urine leaks at one point or another. Stress incontinence is one of the most common types that people deal with. It is more common with women, especially those who are pregnant or have given birth in the past. However, when symptoms grow more frequent or more disruptive to your regular lifestyle, you need to understand that incontinence may be there to stay.
No matter what the situation is, do not ignore the signs. There are many options in protective undergarments, lifestyle changes, assistive devices, and even pelvic floor exercises that can help manage urinary flow better.
When to Seek Medical Help for Incontinence
Talking to your doctor make sense whenever anything changes with your body or mind. The occasional leak when you sneeze does not need medical intervention. However, if your nerve signals, bladder emptying capabilities, or mobility changes enough to disrupt normal bathroom habits, it is time for a conversation. You do not need to be embarrassed. Millions of people all across the country deal with age-related urinary incontinence every year. Do not let it negatively impact your quality of life.
Ignoring the signs that your incontinence is getting worse is never a good idea. First of all, you have options to live more comfortably and without the fear of embarrassing leaks and accidents. Second, symptoms could indicate other problems with your body that should get attention from your healthcare provider. Finally, if mobility is already a challenge, rushing to the bathroom
may increase your risk of falls and injuries. Talk to your doctor, a loved one, or caregiver to explore the safe and hygienic options for you.
