Questions and Answers

What Problems Can Occur With Bladder Function

The urinary bladder had two main functions, one is to store urine and the other is to expel urine. Problems with bladder function may relate to either of these two functions.

Is there an age when one is most at risk from urinary incontinence

Urinary incontinence, which is the inability to prevent the discharge of urine increases with age for both males and females. Because urinary incontinence is common in older women, it is sometimes mispercieved as a normal part of the aging process. This is not true.

In women, urinary incontinence, is present in about 20% -23% who are 30 to 39 years of age. This percentage increases to 25% to 30% in those who are 40 to 49 years of age and this number remains stable until ages 75 to 89 where it increases to 30% - 32%.

Remember, that even though the risk of developing urinary incontinence increases with increasing age, it is not a normal expected part of aging and most importantly it can be treated.

Are There Other Causes of Urinary Incontinence Besides Urge Incontinence

There are several types of urinary incontinence. Stress urinary incontinence is the involuntary loss of urine on effort or exertion, such as during heavy lifting or on sneezing or coughing. Mixed urinary incontinence is the complaint of involuntary leakage associated with urgency and also with exertion, effort, sneezing or coughing.

Functional incontinence is a situation in which the bladder, urethra, and pelvic floor muscles are functioning properly but physical or mentalfunction interferes with one's ability to get to the bathroom on time.

Temporary incontinence may be caused by illness or medications that increase the volume of urine produced to the point where it interferes with normal urinary tract function.

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If you suffer from incontinence or are a carer you may wish to purchase sanitary and hygiene products specifically designed for individuals suffering from incontinence.