If you are one of those individuals who think that incontinence is just part of the natural aging process then you need to think again. Incontinence is not a disease but a symptom of an underlying problem and there are a number of incontinence treatments that can reverse and even cure the condition.
Depending on what the underlying condition that is causing the problem is, your doctor has a number of therapies to choose from ranging from simple changes in lifestyle, to diet to exercise, medication and even surgical procedures. Most likely he will start with the least invasive program and then go further if there aren't substantial results.
Natural treatments include a therapy called bladder training where your trips to the bathroom are scheduled even if you don't have the urge to go. The idea is to get the bladder trained to expect to urinate four or five times a day.
Diet can work to treat the condition in two ways. By avoiding natural diuretics like caffeine and alcohol and spicy food that irritates the bladder you can minimize the urge to go. Secondly if your diet results in weight loss, particularly belly fat, you will reduce the pressure that is applied to the bladder.
Perhaps the most common treatment is Kegel exercises. These isometric exercises are designed to tone up the muscles of the pelvic floor. When these muscles lose their strength the bladder and urethra are difficult to control. Doing Kegel exercises for 3 to 4 months will bring back the tone and the control.
Medications are used to treat urge incontinence and any underlying condition that is nerve related. Spasms can be reduced through medication and end the incredible urges to urinate. Surgery is normally a last ditch option but there are a few procedures that have an excellent history of controlling the problem.
To determine which incontinence treatments are best for you, visit your doctor for a complete exam. Together you can work out strategies that make sense for you.