Incontinence is a medical condition that refers to the involuntary loss of urine from the bladder (urinary incontinence) or the involuntary loss of bowel motion, faeces, or wind from the bowel (faecal or bowel incontinence).

While this condition is common in older people, it can happen to anybody at any age. It can be prevented by following healthy habits and making a few lifestyle changes to keep your bladder healthy. However, in most cases, the condition cannot be prevented but can be easily managed with Kegel exercises and products like elderly diapers, underpads etc.

Types of Incontinence

Stress Incontinence

Caused by physical pressure on the bladder, leading to urinary control loss.

Urge Incontinence

Known as overactive bladder, causing frequent sudden urges to urinate, making it hard to reach a washroom in time.

Overflow Incontinence

Inability to identify the urge to urinate when the bladder is full, resulting in leakage, more common in men.

Mixed Incontinence

A combination of urge and stress incontinence, often affecting women.

Bowel Incontinence

Involuntary release of feces or wind from the rectum.

Incontinence Causes

Medications

Caused by physical pressure on the bladder, leading to urinary control loss.

Pregnancy

Increased weight during pregnancy puts pressure on the bladder, causing stress incontinence.

Menopause

Reduced estrogen during menopause can contribute to incontinence.

Urinary Tract Infections

UTIs can lead to a sudden urge to urinate and incontinence.

Childbirth

Vaginal delivery may weaken bladder muscles and lead to incontinence.

Prostate Issues

Certain prostate conditions weaken bladder muscles and cause overflow incontinence

Neurological Conditions

Nervous system disorders can affect urinary control and result in incontinence.

Surgery

Lower abdominal surgeries can affect the bladder and lead to incontinence.

Obesity

Excess weight puts pressure on the bladder, leading to incontinence.