Urinary Incontinence Treatment – Lifestyle Changes to Surgery
Urinary Incontinence Treatment Lifestyle Changes to Surgery
Far too many people who suffer from incontinence tend to simply live with the problem rather than take action to cure or at least manage it. This may be due to a sense of embarrassment on their part or they may simply believe that this condition is a natural part of the aging process. There is no need for embarrassment and incontinence is not a natural part of growing old. There is any number of urinary incontinence treatments available ranging from the simple to the drastic.
Incontinence itself is not a disease but rather a symptom of some underlying cause. It's important that you visit your doctor to determine just what the cause is and based on that diagnosis he or she can prescribe a therapy that will not only clear up the cause but end or manage the incontinence as well.
For example there are several therapies that simply involve changes in lifestyle. These would include:
Avoiding natural diuretics such as caffeine and alcohol.
Avoiding spicy foods that can irritate the bladder and cause it to spasm.
Stopping smoking. Not because the smoke encourages incontinence but because the coughing can place pressure on the bladder.
Losing weight. Excess weight causes additional pressure on the bladder and can create stress incontinence.
Kegel exercises. These isometric exercises work the muscles of the pelvic floor which in turn can strengthen the support and protection that they afford the bladder.
Drugs are also available to control certain types of incontinence. Problems that arise from urinary tract infections can be treated with antibiotics. Overactive bladder can be treated with medicine that calms the bladder muscles. Both of these therapies are effective but of course all drugs may be accompanied by side effects.
In severe cases, urinary incontinence treatment may involve surgery. All surgery comes with risks and it's important that you discuss this step with your physician before committing to it. Ask what the success rates are and just what the expected results will be. In any case, there are treatments available and you shouldn't ignore the condition.