If you are a senior who is dealing with incontinence, or the caregiver for a loved one with this problem, it can be helpful to understand what can trigger the bladder and most importantly how to turn it off. Not too long ago, incontinence sufferers had to just suffer in silence. However, today, there is plenty of information to let seniors with incontinence and those who care for them, know how to better manage it. Here are some common bladder triggers and how to turn them off?

Laughing or sneezing-These two very normal reactions can bring on a flood-literally. Incontinence can be triggered by this when the muscles (known as the pelvic floor), that support the urethra and bladder have become weak. So when the patient laughs or sneezes, these muscles cannot hold on as tightly as they should be able to. However, the good news is that there are things that you can do. Bladder retraining can be highly effective in this situation. Putting your bladder on a schedule can let it know when it can and cannot release. Your doctor may also be able to refer you to a physical therapist who can guide you in exercises that will help to strengthen the pelvic muscles. You should also make sure that your bladder is completely empty before you leave the bathroom. Finally, don’t be self conscious about excusing yourself to use the bathroom if you feel an episode of incontinence could occur.

Constipation-Many people are surprised to learn that a bowel problem could bring on incontinence. However, the reason for this is fairly simple. The lower colon and rectum share many of the same nerves because they are located near the bladder. If you are constipated the nerves can become overactive and trigger incontinence. Many seniors are at risk of this because of poor diets and eating habits. Caregivers need to especially vigilant to make sure that the senior in their care is eating properly. In addition, constipation can be prevented by bulking up the diet with fiber. If the senior suffers from chronic constipation then laxatives can be a temporary help. Finally, the senior should be encouraged to drink plenty of water, and eat fruits and vegetables, in order to help guard against constipation from occurring.

Running, jumping, and exercise-This type of incontinence is usually referred to as stress incontinence that happens with physical exertion. Again, like described above it happens because the muscles are not tight enough to fully support the pelvic floor. This means that when physical exertion happens it can bring on incontinence. One of the most important things to do if you find this is happening to you is to talk to your doctor. Many people (especially seniors) find that they are embarrassed about these happenings. However, your doctor can help you determine the appropriate diagnosis and treatment. In addition, to using pelvic muscles therapies, bladder retraining and other techniques, it is important to be careful about hydration. Finally, wearing the right incontinence product can help seniors to maintain the active lifestyle that they want to.

The Caregiver Partnership helps caregivers and their loved ones with answers to their care giving questions, including information about home health care products and supplies, from our Wisconsin-based team of Product Specialists who are all current or former caregivers. The company’s web site provides the largest online library of resources on subjects most important to caregivers – from arthritis to assisted living, and Parkinson’s to prostate cancer – as well as access to more than 3,000 home care products for incontinence, skin care, mobility, home safety and daily living aids.

Dianna Malkowski is a Board Certified Physician Assistant and Mayo Clinic trained nutritionist specializing in diabetes, cancer, wound healing, therapeutic diets, nutrition support and also on Incontinence products. Visit the Care Giver Partnership for more info on Male incontinence products

It is important to understand that incontinence is not a normal part of the aging process. Visit http://www.caregiverpartnership.com/ for more details.

Author Bio: Dianna Malkowski is a Board Certified Physician Assistant and Mayo Clinic trained nutritionist specializing in diabetes, cancer, wound healing, therapeutic diets, nutrition support and also on Incontinence products. Visit the Care Giver Partnership for more info on Male incontinence products

Category: Wellness, Fitness and Diet
Keywords: Incontinence products, Adult incontinence products, Male incontinence products, Incontinence supplie