What is the best treatment for urinary incontinence?
Urinary incontinence is a common condition prevalent in society but is often suppressed or taken lightly as part of the aging process. However, it can affect any age group causing an embarrassing issue; hence, early diagnosis and treatment for urinary incontinence is recommended.
What is urinary incontinence?
When the bladder loses its ability to hold the urine resulting in unintentional release or leaking of the urine, the condition is called urinary incontinence. The brain sends signals to the bladder when it is full, to release urine. The sphincter opens up and makes way for the urine to flow out of the bladder to the urethra and then finally out of the body. Any fault in this complex coordinated system can lead to urinary incontinence.
There are some reliable treatments for urinary incontinence that can reverse and effectively treat the condition which is:
- Medications: The doctors would try to treat urinary incontinence with medication that affects muscle function. The medications basically relax the bladder muscles reducing the urgency
- Hormone therapy: Urinary incontinence caused post-menopause can be due to the lack of estrogen in the body. Local estrogen creams help in preventing dryness and irritation around the urethra.
- Surgery: Surgery for urinary incontinence is a proven and long-lasting treatment. Surgery ranges from minimally invasive insertion of transvaginal tapes to complex robotic procedures. Some common surgical procedures to treat incontinence include:
- Neuromodulation devices: Special pacemakers are implanted in the body to stimulate the nerves of the bladder and offer better control.
- Sling procedure: A sling is introduced to the body to support the urethra channel.
- Artificial urethral sphincter: A surgical procedure to treat incontinence in men. An artificial urethral sphincter is placed to prevent involuntary urine leakage.
How to avoid urinary incontinence problems:
- Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding smoking can contribute to better urinary health.
- Stay Hydrated: Adequate hydration is essential, but avoid excessive fluid intake, especially before bedtime.
- Practice Pelvic Floor Exercises: Kegel exercises help strengthen the pelvic muscles, providing better control over bladder function.
- Manage Chronic Conditions: Conditions like diabetes and obesity can contribute to incontinence. Managing these conditions can help prevent its onset.
- Avoid Certain Foods and Beverages: Limit caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, and artificial sweeteners, as they can irritate the bladder.
- Maintain Regular Bathroom Habits: Avoid holding urine for prolonged periods and ensure timely bathroom breaks.
- Use Proper Toileting Technique: Empty your bladder fully each time you urinate and maintain proper posture on the toilet.
- Be Mindful of Medications: Some medications can contribute to urinary incontinence. Consult your doctor if you suspect any correlation.
By entrusting your urinary incontinence concerns to the experienced urologists of the World of Urology, you can expect a comprehensive, compassionate, and effective approach to overcoming this condition and regaining your urinary health.