Urinary incontinence is a condition that affects millions of people around the world, causing involuntary leakage of urine. It can be a distressing and embarrassing problem, but the good news is that it can be treated with incontinence products and other options. Here is a brief overview of urinary incontinence. 

Types and Causes of Urinary Incontinence

Urinary incontinence comes in several different forms. The three major types are:

1. Stress incontinence: This type of incontinence is characterized by urine leakage during activities that put pressure on the bladder, such as coughing, sneezing, laughing, or lifting heavy objects. It occurs due to weakened pelvic floor muscles that support the bladder and urethra. 
2. Urge incontinence: Also known as overactive bladder, this type involves a sudden and strong urge to urinate, followed by involuntary urine leakage. It can be triggered by factors such as a full bladder, drinking fluids, or even the sound of running water. The cause is often an overactive detrusor muscle in the bladder. 
3. Overflow incontinence: This occurs when the bladder doesn't empty properly, causing it to become overly full. The excess urine then leaks out, resulting in symptoms such as frequent dribbling and a weak urine stream. It is commonly associated with conditions that obstruct the normal flow of urine, such as an enlarged prostate, urinary stones, or spinal cord injuries.

Other causes can include pregnancy and childbirth, menopause, smoking, excess body weight, hysterectomy and some medications.

Signs and Symptoms

Frequent urination, both during the day and at night, is the most common symptom of urinary incontinence. So are sudden and strong urges to urinate, involuntary urine leakage, a weak urine stream, difficulty initiating urination, the feeling of incomplete bladder emptying, and urinary tract infections (UTIs). 

Treatment Options

While urinary incontinence can significantly impact a person's quality of life, a number of treatment options are available. 

Lifestyle modifications, such as pelvic floor exercises and bladder training, can help you regain control over urinary function. Incontinence products, including absorbent pads and disposable underwear, provide an added layer of protection and comfort, so you can go about your daily activities with confidence. Medications can help relax overactive bladder muscles. 

In more severe cases, surgical intervention may be considered. Consulting a healthcare professional is crucial to determining the most appropriate treatment plan.

When you need incontinence products, count on Hometown Medical in Flowood, MS. They carry an extensive range of dependable medical equipment, including custom wheelchairs, lift chairs, mobility equipment, CPAP machines and incontinence products. You can trust their team to assist you in any way they can. Call (601) 933-4699 to speak with a team member, or visit them online to learn more about their services.