Incontinence

Incontinence is a condition where an individual loses voluntary control over their bladder, and it is commonly seen in the over fifty population and in pregnant women. Acute incontinence is typically caused by infection, whereas persistent incontinence develops over time due to multiple causative factors. Stress incontinence is when the bladder leaks in response to increased abdominal pressure. Urge incontinence is when a muscle surrounding the bladder involuntarily contracts and starts the flow of urine. Functional incontinence is an uncontrollable urge to empty the bladder before reaching the bathroom. Reflex incontinence is when people are unaware that their bladder is full.

Causes of stress incontinence: aging, obesity and pregnancy.

Causes of functional incontinence: stress, changes in environment (e.g. being in hospital) and mobility restrictions.

Causes of reflex incontinence: spinal cord injury and neurological impairment.

Symptoms of stress incontinence: leakage of the bladder following a cough, sneeze, laugh or the lifting of a heavy object.

Symptoms of urge incontinence: frequent urination, nocturnal urination, pelvic inflammatory disease, abdominal surgery, bladder infection, coffee or alcohol intake.

Who to consult: Dietician, GP.