Urinary Incontinence: What it is and How it Affects One's Life

Perhaps, in passing, you have heard about urinary incontinence. You wonder what it means, however, you do not want to be rude and ask. The wondering can stop here, as you will now know what urinary incontinence is and how it affects one's life.

Urinary incontinence is the loss of bladder control. People with urinary incontinence have different levels of suffering. Some may only lose small amounts of urine when they bend over, laugh, cough, or sneeze, which is called stress incontinence. Others may have an urgent need to use the bathroom and need to go frequently; however, they seldom make it there: or, they do not make it there at all. People suffering from stress incontinence have a better chance at recovering, as some simple exercises can cure the condition. These exercises will strengthen the muscles, so when the person bends over, laughs, sneezes, or coughs, no urine will escape. On the other hand, people with urge incontinence have a more severe problem on their hands, as this can only be cured in some instances, such as when a kidney infection, bladder infection, or urinary tract infection is present. If it is not a temporary condition such as these are, then only treatments are available, and they do not cure the problem.

Treatment for this form of incontinence all depends on the cause. Sometimes, drugs and surgery are considered; however, if these are not suitable options, then diapers are the next choice.

When a person has to live with urinary incontinence when it has come to this, it can be very upsetting. The person hates himself and experiences feelings of low self worth. He knows that society deems it unacceptable for someone older than four but younger than senior wearing diapers. As a result, the person may isolate himself, not wanting to be in the presence of others. It makes take a long time to achieve acceptance of oneself, depending upon the support system that is in place. If the person does not have a good support system or is constantly ridiculed by so-called well meaning people for not using the bathroom or having accidents, the person may never recover.

Since you now know what urinary incontinence is and how it affects one's life, you will know how to be helpful to someone with the condition, should you ever come across someone like this. You won't have to wonder about it or feel weird when the subject is brought up.