Researchers estimate that between 25 million and 32 million US adults experience urinary incontinence. The condition, which causes involuntary urination, is often associated with aging — but it isn’t necessarily a normal part of getting older.
While the urinary system does experience age-related changes, ongoing incontinence may signal underlying medical issues. At Advanced Southern Westchester Medical in Yonkers, New York, urologist Sherif S. El-Masry, MD, specializes in diagnosing and treating this condition.
This month’s blog debunks the common misconception that incontinence is inevitable, explains why it happens, and highlights practical steps you can take to reduce accidents and improve your quality of life.
Many people believe incontinence is a natural part of getting older. This thought is often tied to its association with menopause or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), both of which tend to affect women and men aged 50 and older.
At the same time, aging can cause the pelvic floor muscles to weaken and reduce bladder capacity and control, which can both make leaks and accidents more likely.
While it’s true that incontinence is more common after middle age, it isn’t a foregone conclusion. Healthy lifestyle changes and professional treatment can ease symptoms significantly, even for people in their 70s and beyond.
Urinary incontinence happens for various reasons, but some of the most common causes include:
Sometimes, physical stress is a contributing factor. For example, you might notice that you experience accidents when you cough, laugh, or sneeze.
The good news is that even if you’re experiencing incontinence now, it doesn’t have to become a permanent concern. Many cases of incontinence are treatable and manageable, especially when identified early on.
Here’s a closer look at some of the most common ways you can manage incontinence:
Hydration is important, but the timing and type of fluids can influence symptoms. Drink water and other beverages whenever you're thirsty. However, you don’t necessarily need eight 8-ounce glasses a day. As long as your urine is clear or light yellow, you’re likely in good shape.
At the same time, reduce your intake of beverages containing alcohol and caffeine. Both of these ingredients can irritate your bladder and make accidents more likely.
A common contributing factor to urinary incontinence is a weak pelvic floor. Anyone can have weak pelvic floor muscles, but they’re more common in women due to childbirth and hormonal changes.
Kegels and other pelvic floor exercises can help strengthen these muscles and make it easier to prevent leakage if the urge to go occurs.
Many people with incontinence use the toilet whenever they feel the slightest urge to urinate, but over time, this can reinforce a pattern of frequent urgency even if your bladder isn’t full.
Bladder training tries to break this pattern by gradually extending the time between bathroom trips. If you typically use the toilet every hour, try stretching that to an hour and 15 minutes. Over time, this practice can help you hold urine better so you’re not always worried about finding a restroom.
You can often manage mild cases of incontinence through lifestyle changes, but if your symptoms persist, stress you out, or negatively affect your quality of life, don’t wait to undergo a professional evaluation with Dr. El-Masry.
After reviewing your health history, discussing your symptoms, and completing an exam and lab testing, if necessary, he can make personalized recommendations. A variety of prescription medications and other treatments can lower accident frequency and help you feel your best.
To receive personalized guidance from our compassionate team, schedule an appointment by calling Advanced Southern Westchester Medical at 914-375-5700 today.
