Urinary incontinence or the loss of bladder control is a common disorder. The American Urological Association estimates that, “A quarter to a third of men and women in the U.S. suffer from urinary incontinence.”
Although urinary incontinence affects men and women, it is more prevalent in women as a result of pregnancy, menopause and childbirth.
There are different types of urinary incontinence including stress incontinence, overflow incontinence, functional incontinence, mixed incontinence and urge incontinence. The two most common are urge and stress incontinence.
Urge incontinence, also known as overactive bladder, is characterized by loss of urine that is associated with an intense or sudden urge to urinate that cannot be delayed. This may result from:
- Bladder infections
- Bladder inflammation
- Bladder cancer
- Brain or nerve problems
- Bladder stones
- Enlarged prostate
Stress incontinence occurs when activities such as sneezing, coughing, laughing, standing up, or exercising causes urine to leak. This can be caused by:
- Pregnancy
- Childbirth
- Nerve injury
- Being overweight
- Pelvic or prostate surgery
Urinary incontinence requires medical attention; unfortunately, a significant number of people who experience symptoms do not seek treatment. Untreated bladder incontinence can lead to skin problems and infections. It can also affect an individual’s mental health and overall quality of life in the long run.
Urinary incontinence is often indicative of an underlying medical problem. Therefore, If you are experiencing symptoms, it is advised that you see a doctor as soon as possible. Your physician can begin treatment early. Treatment may involve medications, physical therapy, bulking agents (to help close the bladder opening), or surgery.
To schedule an appointment with a urologist at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-206-7001.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.