Urinary incontinence refers to sudden or unexpected urination, and it can affect anyone. Even though it’s common, it’s not a condition you have to accept or learn to live with. Whether your symptoms are related to aging, pelvic floor problems, diabetes or other causes, MultiCare urologists can diagnose the problem and help you get relief.
The three most common types of incontinence:
Stress incontinence. The muscles, connective tissues and ligaments that support internal organs like the bladder are known as the pelvic floor. If the pelvic floor becomes weakened or damaged, urine can leak out when you cough, laugh, lift a heavy object or engage in physical activity. Both childbirth and the physical changes associated with aging can increase the risk of developing stress incontinence.
Urge incontinence. Those with urge incontinence feel the sudden, frequent need to urinate and may have trouble making it to the bathroom in time. Several underlying conditions can lead to urge incontinence, such as infections, diabetes or some neurologic disorders.
Overflow incontinence. If the bladder does not empty completely when you urinate, it can become too full, causing urine to leak out or dribble multiple times a day. Bladder obstructions and prostate issues — such as an enlarged prostate or prostate cancer — can lead to overflow incontinence. Diabetes can also increase the risk of developing overflow incontinence.
Risk factors for urinary incontinence
Sometimes people can experience urinary incontinence after surgery or because of a urinary tract infection. Certain medications can also increase the likelihood of incontinence, but more commonly it’s associated with the natural aging process or an underlying medical condition. The following conditions can increase the risk of developing incontinence:
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Diabetes
- Multiple sclerosis
- Parkinson’s disease
- Prostate issues
- Stroke
- Weak pelvic or bladder muscles
Diagnosing and treating urinary incontinence
To uncover the cause and type of urinary incontinence, your doctor or other health care provider may perform a physical exam, review your medical history and request tests such as:
- Blood work
- Urinalysis
- A bladder-emptying test to determine how well your urinary tract is functioning
- Standing cough stress test — a clinical test that helps diagnose stress incontinence
Incontinence can be a sensitive topic. However, it’s important to be honest about your symptoms and their severity to ensure you receive an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.
In some cases, urinary incontinence can be treated with minor lifestyle changes, like limiting caffeine and alcohol intake, quitting smoking, losing weight, and strengthening your pelvic floor muscles. Treatment may also include medications, surgical procedures, injections or the implantation of structures or devices. Your urology team will discuss your treatment options with you and create a personalized plan that improves your quality of life.