If you are a caregiver, for an elderly loved one with incontinence, you may be surprised to learn that all incontinence is not the same. There are different types of incontinence that are brought on by different things. It is important to determine what type of incontinence the senior in your care, is suffering from, in order to find the best available treatment. One of the first steps (and one of the most important), is to have a complete medical evaluation, by the senior’s health care professional, in order to determine the type of incontinence. However, it is important for caregivers and seniors to become acquainted with the types, for themselves. Here is what you need to know about the different types of urinary incontinence-

– Stress Incontinence-This type of incontinence happens when there is additional pressure in the abdominal area. This primarily happens when the patient laughs, sneezes, coughs, exercises, or engages in other strenuous types of physical activity. This type of incontinence is the result of weakened muscles and tissues on the pelvic floor. Many women suffer from this type of incontinence as a result of pregnancy and childbirth. This can happen even many years after they have taken place. Other factors for this type of incontinence include: being overweight, certain medication and having had surgery on the prostrate.

– Urge Incontinence-This is the type of incontinence that is known as overactive bladder. The patient has an overwhelming urge to go to the bathroom, but may not be able to get there in time. There are various causes for this type of incontinence that include but are not limited to: damage to the nerves, and muscles around the bladder and damage to the nervous system. In addition, there are several different conditions that can bring on this type of incontinence. This can include but is not limited to: neurological conditions, diabetes and stroke. Bladder infections, bladder stones and certain medications can bring on this type of incontinence. Some women suffer with both stress and urge incontinence, which doctors refer to as mixed incontinence.

– Overflow Incontinence-This type of incontinence occurs when the patient is not able to fully empty their bladder. Because of this there may be leakage, when the bladder is full. This type of incontinence is more frequent in men, then in women. The main causes of this type of incontinence are having weak bladder muscles, a blockage of the urethra (such as from prostate enlargement), medical conditions such as tumors and constipation.

– Functional Incontinence-This type of incontinence is most commonly found in patients that have physical or cognitive problems that prevent them from getting to the bathroom on time. These problems can vary from conditions such as arthritis to dementia. The treatment for this type of incontinence varies with the health of the patient, but generally is looked at from a management standpoint.

It is crucial to know that incontinence is not a normal part of the aging process. Most incontinence is caused by certain medial conditions that include but are not limited to: pelvic injuries, certain diseases, infection, and degenerative conditions that are associated with aging. In addition, it is important to realize that certain medications may also bring on incontinence.

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