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Our weekly news column bringing the most current, non-biased health
information to the consumer. |
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January 19, 2010 |
A Publication of QVHD |
A Common But Embarrassing Problem
By: V. Deborah Culligan, RN, MPH,
Deputy Director QVHD
Athough it can be very
embarrassing to talk about, incontinence (urinary leakage) is a common
problem experienced by many healthy Americans, from middle-aged to
elderly, by both men and women. For some people, it is merely a minor
inconvenience, only occurring when someone coughs, referred to as
“stress incontinence.” But for others, it can be so uncontrollable that
the fear of humiliation keeps them in their homes.
Is urinary incontinence an expected part of aging? The answer is not
necessarily. Furthermore, there are several actions that can be taken to
solve the problem, rather than just living with the problem and using
over-the-counter sanitary aids. While many women joke about it and
empathize with each other, it really is not a laughing matter for those
with severe incontinence.
There are different types of incontinence caused by different biological
reasons. The main types are “stress”, “overactive” and “overflow.”
“Stress” incontinence happens when a person puts pressure on the bladder
through an action like coughing, lifting or exercise. “Overactive”
incontinence can happen any time and is characterized by a sudden
release of urine. “Overflow” incontinence is characterized by a
nearly-constant dribble of urine. This type of incontinence is more
common in men. The type of incontinence and your age and health status
will influence the treatment. It is important to see a doctor to
determine the cause and type of problem. On occasion, incontinence can
be a symptom of a serious health problem. Check with your internist or
gynecologist. Most often, you will be referred to a urologist.
Treatment for incontinence can include specific exercises, medical
devices, drugs, bladder retraining, collagen implants or surgery. First
steps might should include moderating your fluid intake, cutting back on
caffeinated beverages, strengthening your bladder floor and retraining
your bladder. Medications are also a choice before surgery. Surgery is
usually recommended when all other treatments fail. However, there is
currently no surgical procedure for an overactive bladder. For written
information on incontinence, District residents can call Quinnipiack
Valley Health District, 203 248-4528 or request on line,
www.qvhd.org.
| An Ounce of Prevention is a
publication of the Quinnipiack Valley Health District, located at
1151 Hartford Turnpike, North Haven, CT 06473. Telephone:
248-4528. An Ounce of Prevention is
written by V. Deborah Culligan. The articles are published in the following local newspapers, The Advisor &
Beth-Wood News.
The content is provided as health education and
information to help you make health decisions. It is not intended to
be legal or medical advice, or substitute for recommendations made
by your health care provider. Address all comments to the district
office. |
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