What Is Dual Incontinence?
Dual incontinence occurs when an individual suffers from both bladder and bowel incontinence.
While the bladder is responsible for storing and releasing urine, the bowel or colon stores solid waste. The colon muscles contract to allow waste to be eliminated via the anus.
If these muscles are weakened, an individual could suffer from constipation. Constipation can increase strain on the pelvic floor which could lead to urinary incontinence.
Who does dual incontinence affect?
Dual incontinence affects many people of all different ages including infants, adolescents, adults, and seniors. It is especially common in individuals who have had a stroke, Parkinson’s Disease (PD), Multiple Sclerosis (MS), or dementia due to cognitive impairment. However, anyone can develop dual incontinence; it is not by age or gender.
How is dual incontinence treated?
Treatment for dual incontinence includes treating the symptoms of bowel incontinence as well as addressing bladder control issues.
Bowel incontinence occurs when solid waste unexpectedly leaks from the anus. This can be embarrassing and uncomfortable because it creates a mess that needs to be cleaned up.
Treatment for bowel incontinence includes having regular bowel movements, eating high-fiber foods, avoiding constipation by drinking enough water daily, adding more physical activity to your daily routine, taking over-the-counter medications, or speaking to your doctor about medication options for constipation or diarrhea.
Treatment for bladder incontinence includes using the bathroom when you feel the urge to urinate, strengthening pelvic muscles through Kegel exercises, and wearing protective pads or adult diapers.
If these treatments do not meet your needs, your doctor may recommend other options such as surgery or medication.
If you suffer from both bladder and bowel control issues it is important that you see a physician and receive proper treatment and care so that it does not interfere with your daily life.
It could also be helpful to find an integrated healthcare system in which all of your doctors can work together to treat your ailments.
