Why Can I Not Hold My Pee?
As a child, you were taught to go potty before leaving the house.
You might not have realized it at the time, but this is because there are so many things that can happen on your way out of the door – from forgetting your lunchbox to getting caught in traffic.
But what if you could never hold it?
That’s exactly how it feels for those who suffer from urinary incontinence.
This blog will explore different causes and treatments for incontinence as well as offer some tips for coping with this condition.
What Is Urinary Incontinence?
Urinary incontinence is the sudden and unintentional release of urine.
As well as the embarrassing wetting accidents experienced by many, there are other types of urinary incontinence, including Overflow—a slow, trickling feeling that happens when your bladder doesn’t fully empty. This can cause pressure and pain if left untreated.
Urinary incontinence can range from very mild, where you leak a little when you sneeze or laugh really hard, to almost complete loss of bladder control.
Either way, it’s very important to see your doctor if you are experiencing urinary incontinence.
What Is The Main Cause Of Urinary Incontinence?
According to the Mayo Clinic, urinary incontinence can sometimes be caused by common conditions such as constipation and Weak pelvic muscles.
However, the most common causes include:
- Diseases such as diabetes and multiple sclerosis: If you have diabetes, you may face a higher risk of bladder infections and nerve damage.
- Hormonal changes: Pregnancy and menopause cause changes in hormones that can weaken pelvic muscles and lead to urinary incontinence.
- Prostate surgery: This procedure widens the urethra (the tube that carries urine from your bladder) and can lead to urinary incontinence.
- Aging: Urinary incontinence is more common in seniors, especially those who have had multiple childbirths.
What Can I Do If I Have Urinary Incontinence?
The first step is to see your doctor and discuss the type of urinary incontinence that you are experiencing.
They may refer you to a urologist who can help determine the underlying cause of your incontinence.
There are many treatments available depending on the type and severity of your incontinence:
- Bladder retraining: This involves strengthening your pelvic muscles and gradually increasing how long and often you go without peeing.
- Biofeedback: This therapy teaches you how to relax your pelvic muscles.
- Medication: Over-the-counter and prescription medicines can help manage bladder spasms, reduce the pressure on your bladder, or tackle infections that may be causing your incontinence.
- Pelvic floor exercises: These are done by contracting the muscles on the floor of your pelvis and holding for a few seconds, then releasing. See Alex Miller Pelvic Floor Strong Exercise
- Electrical stimulation: This treatment involves inserting a thin probe into your urethra and delivering electrical pulses to your pelvic muscles.
- Dietary changes: Eating foods high in fiber can help you maintain bowel control, which may also help urinary incontinence.
