Urinary incontinence is a problem that affects 13 million people across all ages and genders. While it impacts a multitude of people, urinary incontinence is more common in women and senior adults. It is an issue that is often temporary and can be caused by a range of underlying factors including congenital issues, obesity, urinary tract infections, prostate cancer, pelvic surgery, or trauma to the area. Incontinence includes urinary leakage, problems urinating, frequent urgent urination, and issues emptying the bladder completely. Embarrassment often prevents people from seeking help because they think it is a normal part of aging; however, most types of incontinence can be treated through a variety of methods. Read on the diagnosis and treatment of the different types of urinary incontinence below.
Diagnosis
Urine collects in the bladder and is held there until urination. When a person urinates, the muscles of the bladder relax and release the urine. When bladder muscles are weakened, become too active, or become infected or injured, they may not perform properly. Some medications can also cause incontinence.
You may not notice incontinence right away because it can happen gradually over time. A urologist will discuss your symptoms with you and perform some simple tests to determine the cause of the incontinence. Diseases of the urinary tract, prolapse, surgery, injury, or central nervous system diseases can contribute to issues with urinary incontinence. Your physician will diagnose the issue and then recommend a customized treatment plan to resolve it.
Treatment of Different Types of Urinary Incontinence
Depending on the cause of urinary incontinence, one or more treatments may be appropriate. Treatment options include:
Strengthening muscles
Electronic stimulation
Medicine
Surgery
Periodic catheterization
You and your physician can choose a treatment plan in order to treat the incontinence.
Results
Successful treatment for incontinence will help you participate in life without embarrassment. With treatment, urinary incontinence can be managed and often cured completely. In fact, talking to your doctor about incontinence can help to alleviate underlying causes. Georgia Urology is a leader in the industry and can help you seek a solution for urinary incontinence. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
Pelvic floor prolapse, which may also be referred to as “pelvic organ prolapse,” affects women all over the United States. Below is some basic information about this condition. Defining the Condition Pelvic floor prolapse occurs when one or more of your pelvic organs fall or bulge into the vaginal canal. In the worst cases, these organs […]
Kegel exercises strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor, which can provide a number of health benefits for people of all ages. Below is some basic information to help you get started with Kegel exercises, whether you are male or female. Kegel Exercises for Women In women, the pelvic floor muscles are responsible for providing […]
Are you one of the millions of men and women grappling with the daily challenges of an overactive bladder, urinary frequency, or urinary incontinence? These issues can disrupt your life, leading to awkward and frustrating situations. At Georgia Urology, our dedicated team of urologists is equipped with a diverse array of treatments to help you […]