Urinary incontinence is the involuntary loss of urine from the bladder, and it represents not only a hygiene issue but also a social problem. Bladder control problems affect approximately 17 million people in the United States. They can cause anxiety, social embarrassment, and may limit a person’s daily and social activities. Fortunately, most of these conditions can be treated. However, the first step toward treatment is recognising the problem and then deciding to see a doctor who is properly trained to treat this condition. When surgery is required, treatment typically involves a minor, bloodless, 15-minute procedure known as a urethral sling procedure.
Causes of incontinence
There are many causes of urinary incontinence. Some of these are related to temporary conditions. When these are treated, the incontinence usually stops. These temporary conditions include:
- Urinary tract infection
- Constipation
- Certain medications
- Increased intake of caffeine, alcohol, artificial sweeteners, and carbonated beverages
Some causes of urinary incontinence are not temporary. However, there is treatment for many of these cases. Other causes include:
- Weakness of the muscles that hold the bladder in place
- Weakness of the bladder and/or sphincter muscles
- Overactive or underactive bladder muscles
- Decreased levels of certain hormones, especially estrogen
- Neurological disorders (for example, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease)
