Continence

Continence

“I just can’t get there fast enough. On my way to the bathroom, I start to go.”

“I leak small amounts of urine throughout the day.”

Could this be you? If so, you may be dealing with urinary incontinence — also known as the involuntary release of urine from the bladder. This condition affects some 20 million Americans, most of whom are women. Actually, the number may be much higher as many people just “live” with the problem because they are simply too embarrassed to discuss it or they feel it is a normal part of aging. They feel that their only choice is to wear pads to prevent an embarrassing accident.

But urinary incontinence is NOT something to be embarrassed about nor is it a normal part of aging. It’s actually a symptom of another underlying problem, which can usually be corrected. Our Continence Clinic staff can help you solve the problem and enjoy a more active lifestyle.

It is important to understand the different types and causes of urinary incontinence:

Stress incontinence: Caused by pelvic muscle weakening, sometimes a consequence of childbearing, post-menopausal estrogen deficiency, major pelvic surgery or other conditions that affect the muscle that controls urination. Stress incontinence is characterized by leakage of urine when sneezing, coughing, laughing, or running.

Urge incontinence (overactive bladder): A sudden, severe urge to empty your bladder that results in involuntary urination. This may be due do a bladder infection, bladder irritation from stones or cancer, excessive caffeine intake, nerve damage to the bladder or other factors.

Overflow incontinence: This type of incontinence is recognized by a constant dribble of urine and the bladder does not empty completely. This may result from a neurological condition or a dropped bladder.

Functional incontinence: This may be due to impaired mobility, diminished mental function in conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, or other dementia or environmental barriers.

Drugs-related incontinence: Some drugs can cause incontinence.

Tell your health care provider if you’re having any symptoms. Urinary incontinence can be treated successfully and Stillwater Medical Group's physicians are here to help diagnose and treat your condition.

FREE SEMINAR

Incontinence:
Getting your bladder under control

Join Robert Hildebrandt, MD from Stillwater
Medical Group as he explains the various causes
and treatments of incontinence. This free class
is a great first step for regaining confidence in
your bladder control.
Thurs., June 28
6-7 pm
Lakeview Hospital
927 Churchill St., Stillwater

Please register in advance
by calling (651) 430-4697