Aging can be fun. These days many seniors spend their days outdoors, playing tennis, golf and even running marathons. But even active seniors may struggle from an uncomfortable condition called incontinence.

Although incontinence does not happen because of aging, it’s estimated that at least one out of 10 people age 65 and older suffers from the condition, defined as the loss of bladder control or the leakage of urine.

This can be an embarrassing and unpredictable condition, which is why some people with the problem withdraw from friends and family. Many try to hide the problem from others - including their doctor. The good news is that in many cases urinary incontinence can be treated and controlled. This is especially important to know for caregivers who think that a nursing home is the only answer for an older person with incontinence.

Types of Incontinence

Incontinence may be caused by changes in the body due to disease. For example, it may be the first and only symptom of a urinary tract infection. 

That’s why it’s important to know the most common types of incontinence and how to treat them. The most common types of urinary incontinence are:

• Stress incontinence happens when urine leaks during body movements that put pressure on the bladder. This may include exercise, coughing, sneezing, laughing or lifting heavy objects. It is the most common type of incontinence. In some cases it is related to childbirth. It may also begin around the time of menopause.
• Urge incontinence happens if you can’t hold your urine long enough to reach a toilet. Although healthy people can have urge incontinence, it is often found in people who have diabetes, stroke, dementia, Parkinson’s disease or multiple sclerosis. It can also be a warning sign of early bladder cancer.
• Overflow incontinence happens when small amounts of urine leak from a bladder that is always full. In older men, this can occur when an enlarged prostate blocks the flow of urine from the bladder. Some people with diabetes or spinal cord injury also have this problem.
• Functional incontinence happens in many older people who have normal urinary control but have a hard time getting to the toilet due to arthritis or other crippling disorders.

Treatment

Some people who suffer from incontinence fail to see a doctor because they don’t realize that often the condition can be treated and managed. Yet this is the first and most important step for treatment. Your doctor will give you a physical exam to determine if your incontinence may be a disease-related condition.

Treatment options may include:

• Behavioral techniques such as pelvic muscle exercise, biofeedback and bladder control training.
• Medications that may help control incontinence. Be sure to talk with your doctor about any possible side-effects as some medications may cause dry mouth, eye problems or urine build-up.
• Surgery may be a solution for someone with incontinence due to a structural problem such as an abnormally positioned bladder or blockage due to an enlarged prostate.
• You may also ask your doctor about new treatment options, including a neurostimulator that influences the bladder and surrounding muscles.
• There are other ways to manage the condition. This may include special absorbent underclothing that is no more bulky than normal underwear and be worn easily under everyday clothing.
  

If you or a loved one suffers from incontinence, talk with you doctor. In many cases, you can live a normal and active life despite the condition.

Dr. Still is a board-certified urologist caring for hundreds of patients each year.  He is one of the many quality physicians on staff at Des Peres Hospital.