When many people think about incontinence they assume only the oldest, sickest people have this problem. This is not necessarily true. Incontinence is a problem that occurs in people all of ages, health status, and both genders. However, incontinence is more common in the elderly. Studies show almost 40% of women and 20% of men over the age of 60 suffer with some form of incontinence. It is important to keep in mind this is due to the fact the most common conditions that cause incontinence are more prevalent among the older population.
Some of the most common causes of incontinence include but are not limited to:
•Pregnancy and childbirth- For women this is the most common cause of incontinence. Due to the damage the pelvic floor muscles can receive during pregnancy and childbirth, many women find they are having to deal with incontinence. Unfortunately the onset of incontinence can occur years later after a women has long been done having children.
•Menopause and hormonal changes- Another common culprit for women who have incontinence is the hormonal changes they go through before and during menopause.
•Prostrate problems- For men one of the most common causes of incontinence is due to problems with their prostrate. This can range from having an enlarged and inflamed prostrate to having prostrate cancer.
•Neurological disorders- There are also several different neurological disorders that can bring on incontinence. Some of these include: Multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, stroke, a brain tumor, neuropathy, or a spinal injury which can interfere with nerve signals involved in bladder and bowel control.
•Aging- While incontinence is not strictly due to aging, the reality is as the body ages it often functions less efficiently. Many people find as they age their bladder and bowels do not function as well as they once did causing the individual to have to deal with incontinence.
The good news is no matter what age you are, there are things you can do to reduce the risk of age related incontinence. Even if you already have to deal with incontinence the things listed below can also help to reduce or even eliminate your symptoms. These items include:
•Change what you eat and drink- There are several ways you can change your diet in order to reduce your risk of incontinence or reduce it if you already have it. Eliminating alcohol, caffeine, and foods that are high in sugar can help to do this. Also certain medications may be affecting your incontinence. If you are taking medications you should consult your doctor if this is a possible side effect.
•Doing Kegel exercises- This exercise has been shown to greatly increase the strength of the pelvic floor muscles and help to reduce or eliminate incontinence. Begin by finding the right pelvic muscles (by stopping a stream of urine), and then focus on contracting and relaxing those muscles. If you are consistent and continue with this over time it can help to reduce or eliminate incontinence symptoms.
•Stay in good health- Studies show those with overall poor health are more likely to develop incontinence. It is crucial you maintain good health and check with your health care provider for recommendations for improving your health.
Finally, it doesn't matter what age you are if you having symptoms of incontinence see your health care professional for appropriate diagnosis and treatment. Today, there are many different ways individuals with incontinence can manage it.
Dianna Malkowski is a Physician Assistant and Mayo Clinic trained nutritionist who helps customers of The CareGiver Partnership with questions to their caregiving questions. She invites you to visit blog.caregiverpartnership.com for more helpful family caregiver information. Also find over 1000 family caregiver resources at http://www.caregiverpartnership.com/resources/categories/.
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