Women and Urinary Incontinence

Is urinary incontinence very common?

It is estimated that between 10 and 17 million Americans (1 in 11!) suffer urinary incontinence, (UI), also called "overactive bladder." Twice as many women as men are afflicted. UI can strike at any age, and as a result of birth defects, strokes, multiple sclerosis, nerve injury or of aging. UI is a serious problem for anyone - it may result in alienation from other people, unwillingness to leave the house, annoyance and/or misery, skin rashes or even being banished while still young to a nursing home. While it may not be life-threatening, it is surely one of the most annoying problems a person can face. Untreated, the condition can become permanent. Fortunately there are a number of effective treatments.

Are there different types of urinary incontinences?

Yes. They are:

?Urge incontinence: large amounts of urine while asleep, or while listening to or handling running water. This condition is the most common form of UI among women.

?Overflow incontinence: Small leaks due to a full bladder. Many people who suffer from overflow have trouble fully emptying the bladder. Overflow UI is fairly rare in women.

?Functional incontinence: losing control due to inaccessibility of toilet facilities. Older people who are frail, move slowly or are mentally confused may encounter this problem frequently. People in wheelchairs may find their route to the bathroom blocked.

?Transient incontinence: Temporary leaking due to a medical problem such as infections, mental confusion, medications and constipation; when the medical problem is resolved, transient incontinence symptoms should disappear. If they do not, contact your doctor.

?Mixed incontinence: Combination of types, usually urge and stress.

?Stress incontinence: Leaking during physical activity such as exercising, coughing or sneezing.

What are the symptoms?

Check with your doctor if:

You get up more than once a night to urinate, or over 8 times in 24 hours, especially if as
soon as you go, you have to go again.
The urge to go is overpowering; complete loss of control.
You don't have time to get to the bathroom.